Tasty Wild Rice Pilaf Recipe
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both healthy and full of flavor, wild rice pilaf is the perfect choice. This dish combines the earthy taste of wild rice with the savory goodness of sautéed vegetables and a touch of sweetness from dried cranberries or raisins. It’s easy to make and versatile enough to pair with nearly any main course. Whether you’re serving it alongside a roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a hearty vegetarian meal, this wild rice pilaf adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your table.
The beauty of this pilaf lies in its simplicity and the variety of textures and tastes it brings to the dish. The tender wild rice soaks up the rich flavors of the broth, while the sautéed onions, carrots, and celery give it a savory base. A handful of chopped nuts and fresh parsley adds crunch and brightness, making every bite satisfying and balanced. Plus, it’s a great recipe to prepare in advance, so you can easily serve it when you need a quick yet impressive side dish. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how much it elevates any meal!
Tasty Wild Rice Pilaf Recipe
4-6
servings10
minutes45
minutes1,400
kcalA hearty and nutritious side dish, wild rice pilaf combines tender wild rice with sautéed vegetables and a touch of sweetness from dried cranberries or raisins. Packed with different textures and tastes, it complements any main course beautifully. Simple to make and full of goodness, this pilaf will elevate your meal and satisfy your guests.
Ingredients
1 cup wild rice
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional: almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional for added sweetness)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Start by rinsing the wild rice under cold water to remove any excess starch. Drain well. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed wild rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Set it aside.
- While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot, cooking until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent them from burning. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, add the cooked wild rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine, ensuring the rice and vegetables are evenly mixed. Stir in the chopped parsley, nuts (if using), and dried cranberries or raisins (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Transfer the wild rice pilaf to a serving dish. Garnish with additional parsley or nuts if desired. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the best texture, make sure to cook the wild rice until it’s tender but still slightly chewy. If you prefer a nuttier taste, lightly toast the nuts before adding them to the pilaf. You can also customize the sweetness by adjusting the amount of dried cranberries or raisins based on your personal preference.
Conclusion
Wild rice pilaf offers a perfect balance of texture and taste, making it an ideal side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re pairing it with a hearty meat dish or enjoying it as part of a lighter meal, it brings a wholesome and satisfying element to your plate. Easy to make and customizable to your preferences, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on hand for every meal. With just a few ingredients, it’s simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress your guests. Enjoy the versatility and deliciousness of wild rice pilaf at your next meal!
