Cheese & Wild Rice
A hearty baked dish combining wild rice, mushrooms, tomatoes, olives, and cheese, perfect for a flavorful vegetarian main or side dish with Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 1 cup wild rice into 4 cups boiling water and cook for 30 minutes. Drain.
- Repeat the cooking process two more times for a total of three times, draining each time.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked wild rice, chopped mushrooms, crushed tomatoes, sliced black olives, diced onion, salt, basil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake covered for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to the mixture before baking. If you're out of wild rice, brown rice can be a suitable substitute, though it may require different cooking times. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for varied flavors, and feel free to include seasonal vegetables for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This dish makes a hearty main course, perfect for a cozy dinner. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It also pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes, offering a satisfying vegetarian option for gatherings or weeknight meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese & Wild Rice contains roughly 560 calories, with 10g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2451mg per serving (107% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of rice instead of wild rice?
Yes, while wild rice offers a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute it with brown or long-grain rice. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure it's fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it entirely. You can also enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before baking, or adjust the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).