Wild Rice with Cranberries and Pecans is a beautifully balanced dish that combines earthy, nutty grains with bursts of sweetness and crunch. Chewy wild rice forms the hearty base, while tart dried cranberries add bright pops of flavor and toasted pecans contribute rich, buttery texture. The result is a dish that feels both rustic and elegant—perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.
Often served as a side dish during fall and winter gatherings, this recipe also works wonderfully as a light vegetarian main or holiday staple. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it versatile, nourishing, and visually appealing. Whether paired with roasted meats or enjoyed on its own, this wild rice dish delivers comfort and sophistication in every bite.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s hearty yet light, comforting yet fresh. The chewy wild rice pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, creating layers of flavor and texture. It’s also incredibly flexible—you can serve it warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for entertaining.
Another reason this dish stands out is that it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients, making it a crowd-pleaser for many dietary needs.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This recipe is a must-try because it’s simple to prepare but feels special on the table. It uses wholesome ingredients, delivers balanced flavor, and pairs well with a wide variety of main dishes. If you’re looking for a side that’s a little different from the usual rice or potatoes, this one is unforgettable.
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 230–260 calories per serving
Course: Side Dish / Light Main
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Cooking Directions
This recipe involves simmering wild rice until tender, then gently folding it with sautéed aromatics, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans to create a flavorful, textured dish.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice
Rinse wild rice under cold water. Combine rice and water or broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45–50 minutes until tender. Drain excess liquid if needed.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
While rice cooks, toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet. Add onion or shallot and sauté until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add cooked wild rice to the skillet. Stir in cranberries, toasted pecans, salt, pepper, and herbs.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
How to Serve
Serve warm as a side dish with roasted chicken, turkey, pork, or fish. It also works well as a vegetarian main when paired with a green salad. For holidays, it’s a wonderful alternative to traditional stuffing or rice pilaf.
Recipe Tips
- Use broth instead of water for deeper flavor
- Rinse wild rice before cooking
- Toast pecans for extra crunch
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or fewer cranberries
- Fresh herbs elevate the flavor
Variations
Apple Wild Rice
Add diced sautéed apples for extra sweetness.
Wild Rice with Mushrooms
Stir in sautéed mushrooms for earthy depth.
Vegan Version
Use olive oil and vegetable broth.
Citrus Wild Rice
Add orange zest for brightness.
Protein-Boosted
Mix in chickpeas or lentils for a hearty main.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth.
Special Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Skillet
- Strainer
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Conclusion
Wild Rice with Cranberries and Pecans is a wholesome, flavorful dish that brings together earthy grains, sweet fruit, and crunchy nuts in perfect harmony. Easy to prepare and elegant enough for special occasions, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a light main, this dish delivers comfort, nutrition, and beautiful flavor in every bite.
Wild Rice with Cranberries and Pecans
Description
Wild Rice with Cranberries and Pecans is a beautifully balanced dish that combines earthy, nutty grains with bursts of sweetness and crunch. Chewy wild rice forms the hearty base, while tart dried cranberries add bright pops of flavor and toasted pecans contribute rich, buttery texture. The result is a dish that feels both rustic and elegant—perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Cook the Wild Rice : Rinse wild rice under cold water. Combine rice and water or broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45–50 minutes until tender. Drain excess liquid if needed.
-
Toast the Pecans : While rice cooks, toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.
-
Sauté Aromatics : Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet. Add onion or shallot and sauté until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
-
Combine Ingredients : Add cooked wild rice to the skillet. Stir in cranberries, toasted pecans, salt, pepper, and herbs.
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Finish and Garnish : Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
