Get ready to elevate your meals with the nutty, slightly sweet flavor of wild rice! This ancient grain is a game-changer for any meal, and when paired with bold flavors and textures, it’s truly unstoppable. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting or light and refreshing, we’ve got 19 delicious wild rice recipes to inspire your cooking. From savory casseroles and pilafs to creamy soups and sweet breakfast bowls, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Savory Wild Rice and Mushroom Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a cozy evening with family and friends. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with sautéed mushrooms and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked wild rice with mushroom mixture.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed Wild Rice Pilaf with Almonds
This flavorful pilaf combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the freshness of herbs and the crunch of almonds, perfect for a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add wild rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff pilaf with a fork. Stir in sliced almonds. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Creamy Wild Rice Soup with Chicken
This hearty soup combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with tender chicken and a rich creamy broth, perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day. With its unique blend of textures and flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the wild rice blend and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Pecans
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, cranberries, and pecans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus cooking time for wild rice)
Spicy Wild Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to traditional stuffed peppers with this spicy wild rice recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these bell peppers are packed with nutritious ingredients and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup black beans, cooked
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced jalapeño pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooked wild rice, black beans, onion, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the wild rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Rice and Kale Buddha Bowl
A nutritious and flavorful bowl that combines the earthy taste of wild rice with the nutritional powerhouse of kale, all topped with a tangy tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tahini dressing (see below)
Tahini Dressing:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. To assemble the bowls, divide cooked wild rice among four bowls. Top with wilted kale mixture, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and drizzle with tahini dressing.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Vegetable and Wild Rice Medley
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and nutritious medley of roasted vegetables and wild rice. This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner or as a side dish for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cubed
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
3. Toss sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Add garlic and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked wild rice with roasted vegetables.
7. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Wild Rice and Lentil Curry
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the comforting warmth of lentils, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic curry sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a nutritious meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 1 cup red or yellow lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
3. Add lentils, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Fluff cooked wild rice with a fork and serve alongside the curry.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Wild Rice and Broccoli Bake
This hearty, comforting casserole combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweetness of broccoli and a rich cheesy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, broccoli, onion, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Dot the top with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Rice and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash
This hearty recipe combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the savory taste of sausage, all wrapped up in a roasted acorn squash. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized acorn squashes
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked wild rice, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each acorn squash half with the sausage-rice mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Citrus Glazed Salmon with Wild Rice
Elevate your meal with this vibrant and flavorful dish, featuring succulent salmon glazed with a zesty citrus sauce and paired with nutty wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and ginger.
4. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the citrus glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve wild rice alongside glazed salmon, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Rice and Black Bean Enchiladas
Wild Rice and Black Bean Enchiladas: A flavorful fusion of textures and tastes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add black beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning the wild rice mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese. Roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with additional cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Dijon Chicken with Wild Rice
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this sweet and savory Maple Dijon Chicken with Wild Rice. The combination of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and crispy chicken is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup wild rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
3. In a separate pan, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Add olive oil and bring to a simmer.
4. Add chicken breasts to the glaze mixture and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve chicken with wild rice and garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Wild Rice and Sweet Potato Hash
Elevate your brunch game with this hearty and flavorful Wild Rice and Sweet Potato Hash recipe! This dish combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, all in one crispy and savory hash.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until translucent.
4. Add cooked wild rice, roasted sweet potatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.
Wild Rice and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and earthy dish, perfect for any occasion. These stuffed mushrooms combine the nutty goodness of wild rice with the creamy richness of spinach and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cooked wild rice, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and minced garlic.
3. Wipe mushrooms clean with a damp cloth and remove stems.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the rice mixture, mounding slightly in the center.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Rice and Turkey Meatballs
Elevate your dinner game with this savory blend of wild rice and turkey meatballs, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the tender juiciness of turkey meatballs, all in one satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Wild Rice and Avocado Sushi Rolls
Elevate your sushi game with this unique fusion of flavors and textures! This recipe combines nutty wild rice with creamy avocado, wrapped in a delicate seaweed sheet.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice (sushi rice)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sushi rice according to package instructions using 1/4 cup of water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cooked wild rice and mashed avocado.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the wild rice-avocado mixture in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with sesame seeds and soy sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including preparation)
Wild Rice and Blueberry Breakfast Porridge
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast porridge that combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweetness of blueberries. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 cup fresh blueberries, rinsed and drained
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the cooked wild rice, rolled oats, and honey or maple syrup (if using). Stir well.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the porridge is creamy and the flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in the blueberries and salt.
5. Cook for an additional minute, then serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wild Rice and Coconut Milk Pudding
This rich and comforting dessert combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the creamy texture of coconut milk, perfect for a cozy evening treat. With only 7 ingredients and minimal cooking time, this pudding is easy to make and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked wild rice, coconut milk, honey, and salt.
2. Cook over low heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with these 19 flavorful wild rice recipes! From savory casserole to spicy stuffed bell peppers, and from creamy soup to sweet breakfast porridge, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover how to incorporate this nutritious grain into your daily meals with recipes like Herbed Wild Rice Pilaf with Almonds, Creamy Wild Rice Soup with Chicken, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these wild rice recipes are sure to inspire.
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