Elegant Wild Rice Strawberry Salad
Indulge in this sophisticated Elegant Wild Rice Strawberry Salad, a delightful harmony of earthy wild rice and sweet strawberries, perfect for a romantic picnic in the park. Tossed in a zesty honey-Dijon vinaigrette and enhanced with crunchy walnuts and fresh scallions, this salad is not only visually appealing but also a burst of flavors with each bite. Ideal for sharing with a loved one, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your palate. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature to savor the perfect blend of textures and tastes.
2
Servings
275
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
wild rice
1 cup (rinsed and cooked according to package directions)
apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons (n/a)
olive oil
3 tablespoons (n/a)
Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon (n/a)
honey
2 tablespoons (n/a)
salt
to taste (n/a)
pepper
to taste (n/a)
garlic clove
1 (minced)
dried tarragon
2 teaspoons (n/a)
scallions
2 (chopped)
walnuts
4 ounces (either whole or chopped, roasted if desired)
ripe strawberries
4-6 (thinly sliced)
Instructions
1
Begin by rinsing the wild rice under cold water to remove any impurities. Cook the rice according to package directions, substituting chicken broth for water if desired for added flavor.
2
While the wild rice cooks, prepare the dressing by whisking together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and dried tarragon in a medium bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3
Once the rice is cooked, drain any excess liquid and add it to the bowl with the dressing while it’s still warm. This helps the rice absorb the flavors.
4
Gently fold in the chopped scallions to incorporate freshness into the salad.
5
Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and chill for 30-60 minutes. The flavors marry beautifully, but the salad is best enjoyed at a slight chill rather than too cold.
6
Before serving, taste again and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Mix in half of the walnuts for added crunch.
7
To plate, thinly slice the strawberries and artistically arrange them on top of the salad. Sprinkle the remaining walnuts over the top for an attractive finish.
Nutrition Information
17g
Fat
25g
Carbs
6g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Elegant Wild Rice Strawberry Salad?
It is a sophisticated salad featuring a harmony of earthy wild rice and sweet strawberries tossed in a zesty honey-Dijon vinaigrette with walnuts and scallions.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to make 2 servings.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
How many calories are in a serving of this salad?
There are approximately 275 calories per serving.
What are the primary ingredients in the vinaigrette?
The dressing consists of apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, and dried tarragon.
Should the wild rice be rinsed before cooking?
Yes, it is recommended to rinse the wild rice under cold water to remove any impurities before cooking.
Can I use broth instead of water to cook the rice?
Yes, substituting chicken broth for water is a suggested way to add more flavor to the wild rice.
How long should the salad be chilled?
The salad should be chilled in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes to allow the flavors to marry.
When should I add the dressing to the rice?
Add the dressing to the rice while it is still warm to help the rice absorb the flavors more effectively.
How do I prepare the walnuts for this recipe?
The walnuts can be whole or chopped, and they can be roasted if you desire extra crunch.
When are the strawberries added to the salad?
Strawberries should be thinly sliced and artistically arranged on top of the salad just before serving.
What type of mustard is required?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
What herb is used in the dressing?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of dried tarragon.
How many strawberries do I need?
You will need between 4 and 6 ripe strawberries.
What is the best way to serve this salad?
It is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for a picnic.
Can I use a substitute for honey?
While the recipe calls for honey, you could likely substitute it with maple syrup or agave for a similar sweetness.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are 17 grams of fat per serving.
Is this salad considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an 'easy recipe' and involves simple preparation steps.
Can I use a different nut besides walnuts?
While walnuts are recommended for their crunch, you could experiment with pecans or sliced almonds.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How many scallions are used?
The recipe calls for 2 chopped scallions.
What is the protein content?
Each serving provides 6 grams of protein.
What type of vinegar is used for the dressing?
The recipe uses apple cider vinegar.
Is this salad suitable for a summer meal?
Yes, it is specifically tagged as a 'summer salad' due to its fresh ingredients.
How should I prepare the garlic?
You should use one garlic clove, finely minced.
What is the recommended amount of wild rice?
Use 1 cup of wild rice (measured before cooking).
Should the walnuts be mixed in all at once?
No, mix half of the walnuts into the salad and sprinkle the remaining half on top for a better finish.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes, you should taste and adjust the salt and pepper both when making the dressing and before serving.
What makes this salad a good choice for a picnic?
Its ability to be served at room temperature and its visual elegance make it perfect for a romantic outdoor meal.
How do I ensure the rice has the best flavor?
Rinsing the rice, cooking it in broth, and mixing it with dressing while warm are key steps for maximum flavor.