Fruit And Nut Rice Casserole
A hearty rice casserole featuring wild rice, nuts, and dried fruit, perfect for comforting family dinners or holiday gatherings with savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare rice according to package directions, substituting chicken broth for water and omitting butter.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
- Add cashews; cook for 2 minutes, then remove from skillet.
- Add celery and carrots to the skillet; saute for 5 minutes in remaining butter.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in cooked rice, cashews, sliced water chestnuts, golden raisins, and remaining ingredients.
- Spoon mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Loosely cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider toasting the cashews before adding them to the skillet. If you can't find brown and wild rice with mushrooms, you can substitute with regular brown rice and add sautéed mushrooms separately. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the sweetness from the golden raisins.
Serving Suggestions
This Fruit And Nut Rice Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or pork for a heartier option. It also makes a great side dish for holiday gatherings, complementing dishes like Dressing Covered Pork Chops or Creamy Chicken - Rice Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit And Nut Rice Casserole contains roughly 539 calories, with 8g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (76% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, ensure that the brown and wild rice you use is labeled gluten-free. Additionally, check that the chicken broth you choose is also gluten-free. This will make the casserole suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to sauté them until they're tender before mixing them into the casserole.
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).