Ina Garten Wild Rice Salad Recipe

This Ina Garten Wild Rice Salad Recipe is a fresh and vibrant dish, which includes wild rice and dried cranberries. It’s a healthy twist on the classic, ready in about 25 minutes.

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Ina Garten Wild Rice Salad Recipe Ingredients

• 1 cup wild rice, cooked as per package instructions
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How To Make Ina Garten Wild Rice Salad Recipe

1. Cook the rice: Prepare wild rice according to the package directions. Let it cool completely.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine dried cranberries, chopped celery, red onion, toasted pecans, parsley, and orange zest.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Add rice and chill: Stir in the cooled wild rice and mix thoroughly. Let the salad rest for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Recipe Tips

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, this salad actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
• What kind of wild rice should I use?
  Use 100% wild rice or a wild rice blend. Follow the package instructions for best results.
• Can I swap out the pecans?
  Yes, toasted walnuts or slivered almonds are great alternatives.
• What’s a good substitute for white wine vinegar?
  Try apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar if that’s what you have on hand.
• Can I add protein?
  Yes—grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas work well for a more filling salad.

What To Serve With Wild Rice Salad

This salad is perfect as a side or light main dish. Pair it with:

• Grilled chicken or turkey
• Baked salmon or trout
• Butternut squash soup
• Roasted vegetable medley
• Herbed focaccia or crusty bread

How To Store Wild Rice Salad

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Meal Prep Tip: Keep the dressing separate if storing for more than a day to maintain the best texture.

Wild Rice Salad Nutrition Facts

(Estimated per serving)

• Calories: 310
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 180mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?
Yes, though wild rice offers a nuttier flavor and firmer texture.

Is this salad served hot or cold?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature.

Can I add cheese?
Crumbled feta or goat cheese is a delicious addition.

How long can this salad sit out?
No more than 2 hours at room temperature for food safety.

What herbs can I substitute for parsley?
Try fresh dill, cilantro, or basil for a different flavor profile.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Avocado Corn Salad Recipe
• Ina Garten Black Bean Salad Recipe
• Ina Garten Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe