Nutted Wild Rice Salad
A vibrant and nutty wild rice salad featuring fresh mint, crunchy pecans, sweet mandarin oranges, and a citrusy vinaigrette, perfect for light lunches or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook wild rice in chicken stock, then boil and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes. Drain and dry.
- Chop mint, pecans, scallions, and mandarin oranges.
- Mix olive oil, orange juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Add all ingredients to a bowl and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the salad. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can replace mint for a different taste profile. Adjust the dressing by adding a touch of honey for sweetness if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Nutted Wild Rice Salad makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats or can be served as a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with Honeylulu Chicken Barbecue or can be enjoyed on its own for a refreshing meal. Consider adding feta cheese for extra creaminess or serving it alongside a simple green salad for a full spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits, making it even tastier. This salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat; simply enjoy it right from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nutted Wild Rice Salad contains roughly 774 calories, with 10g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (211% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1202mg per serving (52% 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 brown rice instead of wild rice?
While you can substitute brown rice, the texture and flavor will differ significantly from wild rice. Wild rice has a unique nutty taste and chewy texture that adds depth to the salad. If you choose brown rice, reduce the cooking time to about 30-35 minutes and adjust the liquid accordingly.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth and ensure that your orange juice is 100% pure without added ingredients. The salad will still be flavorful and satisfying while accommodating those following a plant-based diet.
Is it possible to prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, it's encouraged to prepare this salad at least 2 hours in advance, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can make it a day ahead, just be sure to store it in the refrigerator until serving time for the best taste and freshness.
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).