If you're looking to spice up your meals, wild rice is where it's at. It's not just tasty; it's super versatile too! From a zesty salad with cranberries to a cozy soup that'll warm your heart, wild rice can do it all. Plus, who wouldn't want to impress their friends with colorful stuffed peppers? Stick around, because I've got five incredible wild rice recipes that'll make your taste buds dance!
Wild Rice Salad With Cranberries and Pecans
Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Pecans is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together the earthy flavors of wild rice, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and the crunch of pecans. This salad is perfect as a side dish or a light main course, making it a versatile option for gatherings or a healthy meal at home.
The combination of these ingredients not only makes for a visually appealing dish but also provides a delightful contrast in textures and flavors that will leave your tastebuds satisfied.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Rinse the wild rice under cold water, then combine it with the water or vegetable broth in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has burst open. Drain any excess liquid if necessary and let the rice cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled wild rice, cranberries, pecans, red onion, celery, and parsley.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper, then pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Extra Tips:
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese to the salad, which pairs wonderfully with the cranberries and pecans.
You can also incorporate other fresh ingredients, such as diced bell peppers or sliced green onions, for added color and crunch.
If you're preparing the salad in advance, keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
This dish can be served cold or at room temperature, making it a great option for meal prep or potlucks.
Enjoy experimenting with different herbs or spices to personalize your salad!
Creamy Wild Rice and Mushroom Casserole

Creamy Wild Rice and Mushroom Casserole is a delightful comfort food that combines the earthy flavors of wild rice with the rich, savory taste of mushrooms and a creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a side for holiday gatherings.
With its hearty ingredients and creamy texture, it's sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, the casserole can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup wild rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Begin by rinsing the wild rice under cold water, then combine it with vegetable broth in a pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes or until tender.
In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they're browned.
Once the wild rice is done, mix it with the sautéed vegetables, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. If desired, stir in the frozen peas.
Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Extra Tips:
For added depth of flavor, consider using a combination of different mushrooms like shiitake, cremini, or portobello.
You can also substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option such as Greek yogurt or a non-dairy alternative if you're looking for a healthier version.
To make the dish even heartier, feel free to add cooked chicken or sausage.
If preparing ahead of time, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Finally, garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the flavors!
Wild Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
Wild Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of wild rice with the sweetness of bell peppers. This recipe isn't only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
The bell peppers serve as a vibrant vessel for the hearty wild rice filling, which can be customized with your favorite spices and vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup black beans (canned, rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the wild rice under cold water, then cook it in vegetable broth according to package instructions until tender.
While the rice is cooking, slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. In a skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
Add the cooked wild rice, black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet, mixing until well combined. Stuff each bell pepper with the wild rice mixture, packing it tightly.
If using cheese, sprinkle it on top before placing the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the peppers to soften.
Extra Tips:
To improve the flavor of your Wild Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers, consider adding diced tomatoes or sautéed zucchini to the filling for extra moisture and taste.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist. If you prefer a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick meal. Enjoy your delicious and healthy creation!
Wild Rice and Chicken Soup

Wild Rice and Chicken Soup is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for cooler weather or when you're feeling under the weather. This soup combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with tender chicken and assorted vegetables, creating a deliciously satisfying meal.
It's easy to make and can be enjoyed as a quick weekday dinner or as a warm, welcoming dish for guests. This recipe isn't only nourishing but also versatile, allowing for the addition of your favorite herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Add the chicken breasts, wild rice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer flavor and let everything heat through for another 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the vegetables.
You can also customize this soup by adding other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, or even incorporating leftover roasted chicken. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
Additionally, wild rice can take longer to cook than white rice, so make sure you allow adequate time for it to become tender. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Wild Rice and Chicken Soup!
Savory Wild Rice Pilaf With Vegetables
Savory wild rice pilaf with vegetables is a delightful and nutritious dish that showcases the earthy flavors of wild rice combined with a medley of colorful vegetables. This dish is perfect as a side or a main course, offering a satisfying texture and a burst of flavor in every bite.
The fragrant herbs and spices improve the dish, making it a wonderful addition to any meal, whether it's a family dinner or a festive gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent.
Stir in the carrot, celery, bell pepper, and green beans, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add the wild rice to the pan, followed by the vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider toasting the wild rice in the saucepan for a few minutes before adding the broth. This deepens its nutty flavor.
You can also customize the vegetable mix based on what you have on hand or what's in season.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as basil or oregano for a unique twist.
If you prefer a creamier texture, try adding a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of butter just before serving.
Enjoy your savory wild rice pilaf!