Nutty Wild Rice and Cranberry Medley Salad
Embark on a flavorful journey with this Nutty Wild Rice and Cranberry Medley Salad, a wholesome combination of hearty wild rice and sweet-tart dried cranberries, complemented by crunchy walnuts and crisp celery. This vibrant salad exudes a delightful nutty aroma and is perfect for a nourishing lunch or as a refreshing snack. Each bite is packed with nutrients, providing a satisfying balance of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Ideal for meal prep, this salad can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to any gathering or a quick solo lunch. Delightfully easy to prepare, it's a dish that celebrates the rich bounty of nature with every ingredient.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Basmati rice pilaf
1 cup (Cooked according to package directions)
Dried cranberries
1 cup (No preparation needed)
Celery
2 sticks (Thinly sliced)
Walnuts
1 cup (Roughly chopped)
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (No preparation needed)
Red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons (No preparation needed)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the basmati rice pilaf and cook according to package instructions until tender. Once cooked, drain the rice and set aside to cool to room temperature.
2
Meanwhile, prepare the remaining ingredients. Thinly slice the celery, and roughly chop the walnuts.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, dried cranberries, sliced celery, and chopped walnuts. Gently mix the ingredients to ensure an even distribution.
4
For the dressing, combine olive oil and red wine vinegar in a screw-top jar. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then secure the lid and shake vigorously until well combined.
5
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for enhanced flavors.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nutty Wild Rice and Cranberry Medley Salad?
It is a wholesome and flavorful salad combining hearty basmati rice, sweet-tart dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and crisp celery with a simple vinaigrette.
What are the main ingredients needed for this recipe?
The main ingredients are basmati rice pilaf, dried cranberries, celery, walnuts, olive oil, and red wine vinegar.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Is the Nutty Wild Rice and Cranberry Medley Salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How should I cook the rice for this salad?
Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan, add the rice, and cook according to the package instructions until tender.
Can I use a different type of rice instead of basmati?
Yes, you can substitute basmati with wild rice, brown rice, or a rice blend depending on your preference.
How do I prepare the dressing?
Combine olive oil and red wine vinegar in a jar, season with salt and pepper, and shake vigorously until emulsified.
Can this salad be prepared in advance for meal prep?
Absolutely, this salad is ideal for meal prep as it holds up well when stored.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
How long does this salad stay fresh?
When refrigerated, the salad should stay fresh and delicious for 3 to 4 days.
Can I serve this salad warm?
While it is typically served chilled or at room temperature, it can be served warm if you prefer.
What kind of nuts are used in this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for roughly chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?
Yes, pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds make great substitutes for walnuts.
What can I use if I don't have dried cranberries?
Dried cherries, raisins, or even dried currants can be used as a sweet-tart alternative.
Does this salad provide a good amount of fiber?
Yes, the combination of rice, walnuts, and celery provides a healthy amount of dietary fiber.
Can I add extra protein to this dish?
Yes, you can easily add chickpeas, tofu, or even grilled chicken to make it more filling.
What can I use instead of red wine vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice are excellent substitutes for red wine vinegar.
Do I need to let the rice cool before mixing?
Yes, it is recommended to let the rice cool to room temperature before adding the other ingredients.
How much celery do I need?
The recipe calls for two sticks of celery, thinly sliced.
Is this salad a good option for a snack?
Yes, its balanced nutrient profile makes it a refreshing and nourishing snack.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients plus salt and pepper for seasoning.
Should I chill the salad before serving?
Chilling for 30 minutes is recommended to allow the flavors to meld together, but it is not mandatory.
What equipment is needed for this recipe?
You will need a large saucepan, a mixing bowl, a knife for chopping, and a screw-top jar for the dressing.
Is this a high-protein recipe?
The salad contains plant-based protein from the walnuts and rice, making it a nutritious choice.
Can I toast the walnuts?
Yes, toasting the walnuts lightly in a pan before adding them can enhance the nutty aroma.
How do I prevent the rice from being mushy?
Drain the rice immediately after it reaches the desired tenderness and spread it out to cool.
Is this salad suitable for a picnic?
Yes, because it doesn't contain mayonnaise, it is very stable and perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Can I add fresh herbs?
Fresh parsley or chives would be a wonderful addition to brighten the flavor profile.
How do I ensure the dressing is well distributed?
Drizzle the dressing over the bowl and toss the ingredients gently but thoroughly with a large spoon.
Is the salad sweet or savory?
It is primarily savory with delightful bursts of sweetness from the dried cranberries.