Looking for a flavorful side dish to complement your next meal? Look no further than wild rice! This nutty, slightly sweet grain is a great addition to any menu. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or just need a quick and easy side dish, wild rice has got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious wild rice recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From savory and comforting to sweet and indulgent, these recipes showcase the versatility of wild rice and offer something for everyone.
From garlic butter wild rice with mushrooms to roasted vegetable wild rice medley, each recipe is carefully crafted to highlight the unique flavor and texture of this beloved grain. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these wild rice side dishes are sure to become new favorites.
Garlic Butter Wild Rice with Mushrooms
Elevate your meals with this savory and aromatic side dish, featuring the nutty flavor of wild rice, the richness of garlic butter, and the earthy taste of sautéed mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
5. Fluff cooked wild rice with a fork and stir in mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf
This hearty pilaf combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with sweet and tangy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the wild rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 40 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cranberries, pecans, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cranberries start to pop.
5. Fluff the cooked wild rice with a fork and stir in the cranberry mixture. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Lemon Herb Wild Rice Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing salad that combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, mixed greens, parsley, and basil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Wild Rice and Butternut Squash Bake
This comforting casserole combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, perfect for a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups diced butternut squash (about 1 medium-sized)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, roasted squash, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
5. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Maple Dijon Wild Rice with Brussels Sprouts
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts, all tied together with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon glaze. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite protein for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and Dijon mustard.
5. Combine cooked wild rice and roasted Brussels sprouts in a serving dish. Drizzle with the maple Dijon glaze and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Wild Rice and Kale Stuffed Acorn Squash
This hearty recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted acorn squash with the earthy flavors of wild rice, kale, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium acorn squashes (about 1 1/2 lbs)
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups chopped kale leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 bowl, combine cooked wild rice, chopped kale, olive oil, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Divide the rice mixture among the squash halves, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed squashes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bacon and Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the nutty taste of wild rice, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. With its rich aroma and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
5. Combine cooked wild rice, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
6. Add cooked bacon, shredded cheese, and sautéed onion mixture to the bowl. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Rice with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and textured wild rice recipe, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of caramelized onions and the earthiness of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Add minced garlic and thyme leaves to the skillet; cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Fluff cooked wild rice with a fork and stir in caramelized onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Rice and Apple Stuffing
A savory and sweet twist on traditional stuffing, this Wild Rice and Apple Stuffing combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the natural sweetness of apples. Perfect for a Thanksgiving or fall-themed dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium apples, diced (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked wild rice, diced apples, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Wild Rice Medley
This hearty side dish combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 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
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large bowl, toss sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Fluff cooked wild rice with a fork and combine with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Wild Rice and Spinach Gratin
This Wild Rice and Spinach Gratin is a hearty, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for special occasions or weeknight meals. The combination of nutty wild rice, wilted spinach, and creamy bechamel sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk together with flour to make a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Combine cooked wild rice, spinach mixture, and bechamel sauce in a baking dish. Top with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Rice with Toasted Almonds and Herbs
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the crunch of toasted almonds and a hint of fresh herbs. Perfect for accompanying grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Rinse wild rice and cook according to package instructions.
3. In a skillet, toast almonds over medium heat until lightly browned.
4. In a separate pan, combine olive oil, honey, and chopped parsley. Heat for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Combine cooked wild rice, toasted almonds, and herb mixture in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including cooking time for wild rice)
Wild Rice and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option that combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika for added depth
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, cook chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until translucent.
4. Add cooked wild rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet and stir to combine with the wild rice mixture.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Wild Rice with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the pungency of roasted garlic and the salty sweetness of parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, this flavorful wild rice is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold to form a packet.
3. Roast garlic for 30-40 minutes or until soft and mashed.
4. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, combine cooked wild rice, roasted garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Wild Rice and Chickpea Salad with Tahini Dressing
This hearty salad combines nutty wild rice with tender chickpeas, crunchy veggies, and a creamy tahini dressing. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine wild rice, chickpeas, red bell pepper, cucumber, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Wild Rice and Cornbread Stuffed Peppers
Savory and satisfying, these stuffed peppers are a flavorful twist on a classic dish. A perfect blend of wild rice, cornbread, and spices fills bell peppers to create a hearty and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked wild rice, cornbread mix, cheddar cheese, cilantro, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Rice with Dried Cherries and Walnuts
This hearty side dish combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweetness of dried cherries and the crunch of walnuts. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the wild rice and reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered, for about 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
2. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped walnuts and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the chopped dried cherries and cook for an additional minute.
4. Fluff the cooked wild rice with a fork to separate the grains. Add the walnut-cherry mixture and toss to combine. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Wild Rice and Broccoli Cheese Bake
This comforting casserole combines nutty wild rice with tender broccoli and a rich cheese sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its ease of preparation and delicious flavor profile, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until tender.
3. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir in milk until smooth.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked wild rice, broccoli mixture, and cheese sauce.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Wild Rice with Carrots and Ginger Glaze
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and nutritious wild rice recipe, infused with the warmth of ginger and sweetness of carrots. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine wild rice and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until rice is tender and fluffy.
4. While the rice cooks, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. In a small saucepan, combine grated ginger and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Fluff cooked wild rice with a fork. Stir in roasted carrots and ginger glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Wild Rice and Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
A savory twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of wild rice with spicy sausage for a satisfying appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as cremini or portobello)
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add garlic, wild rice, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the sausage-wild rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime with these 20 flavorful wild rice side dishes! From savory to sweet and everything in between, this collection has something for every occasion. Try Garlic Butter Wild Rice with Mushrooms for a comforting classic, or Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf for a festive twist. For a lighter option, go for Lemon Herb Wild Rice Salad or Wild Rice and Kale Stuffed Acorn Squash. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect side dish to accompany your favorite main course.
