Get ready to elevate your side dish game with these 20 flavorful wild rice recipes! Whether you’re looking for a hearty casserole, a savory pilaf, or a fresh salad, we’ve got you covered. Wild rice is a versatile grain that pairs perfectly with a wide range of ingredients and flavors, making it the perfect addition to any meal.
From comforting casseroles to vibrant salads, these recipes showcase the best of wild rice’s unique nutty flavor and chewy texture. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering wild rice side dish recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From weeknight dinners to holiday feasts, these recipes are sure to impress your family and friends. So let’s get started and discover the amazing world of wild rice!
Garlic Butter Wild Rice with Mushrooms
Elevate your side dish game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe, featuring the nutty goodness of wild rice, earthy mushrooms, and a hint of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse wild rice and cook according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine cooked wild rice with mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the sweetness of cranberries and crunch of pecans. This pilaf is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a accompaniment to your holiday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or broth to a boil.
3. Add the wild rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until tender.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped cranberries and pecan halves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine the cooked wild rice and skillet mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
7. Transfer the pilaf to a baking dish and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
Lemon Herb Wild Rice Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This salad is also great as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss to coat.
2. Stir in chopped parsley and mint leaves.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (all ingredients are pre-cooked)
Wild Rice and Brussels Sprouts Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the earthy sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts, perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Brussels sprouts and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, roasted Brussels sprouts mixture, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Maple Glazed Wild Rice with Butternut Squash
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweetness of maple syrup and the comforting warmth of roasted butternut squash. Perfect for a cozy fall evening or as a side dish for your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or sage) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup and cooked wild rice. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.
5. To serve, place roasted butternut squash on a plate and top with maple-glazed wild rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Rice and Kale Stuffed Acorn Squash
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of wild rice and kale with the natural sweetness of acorn squash, perfect for a fall or winter meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 cup chopped curly kale, stems removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked wild rice, kale, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the kale is wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Divide the filling among the squash halves, mounding it slightly in the center.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the filling.
7. Bake the stuffed squash for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Bacon and Wild Rice Stuffing
A savory twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the nutty taste of wild rice for a delicious side dish perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add crumbled bacon and cook until crispy.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked wild rice, chicken broth, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
6. Fold in the cooked onion and bacon mixture.
7. Transfer stuffing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Rice with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
Experience the perfect harmony of earthy wild rice, sweet caramelized onions, and herbaceous thyme in this simple yet impressive side dish. This recipe is a great accompaniment to roasted meats or as a base for a hearty bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups water to a boil. Add wild rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, caramelize the onions: In a large skillet, cook sliced onions over medium-low heat with olive oil and butter until dark golden brown, stirring occasionally (about 30-35 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic and fresh thyme to the caramelized onions. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff cooked wild rice with a fork and combine with the caramelized onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Wild Rice and Sweet Potato Hash
Elevate your brunch game with this hearty and flavorful hash, combining nutty wild rice and sweet potatoes with a hint of smokiness. Perfect for a cozy weekend morning or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add cooked wild rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Toss in roasted sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Wild Rice with Toasted Almonds and Dried Apricots
This hearty side dish combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the crunch of toasted almonds and the sweetness of dried apricots. Perfect for a special occasion or as a comforting addition to your everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the wild rice according to package instructions using the water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, toast the almonds over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned.
4. Add the melted butter, cooked wild rice, toasted almonds, and chopped apricots to the skillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Rice and Spinach Gratin
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy and nutritious Wild Rice and Spinach Gratin. This vegetarian recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for your next family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Combine cooked wild rice, spinach mixture, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Rice with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and aromatic wild rice recipe, infused with the deep sweetness of roasted garlic and the nutty taste of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
4. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
5. In a large skillet, combine cooked wild rice, roasted garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Stir-fry over medium heat until the flavors are well combined and the rice is heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Rice and Apple Walnut Salad
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweetness of apples and the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled blue cheese or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, mixed greens, diced apple, and chopped walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (cooking wild rice), plus assembly time
Wild Rice with Sautéed Leeks and Herbs
This recipe celebrates the earthy flavor of wild rice paired with the sweet, mellow taste of sautéed leeks and a hint of fresh herbs. A perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and sliced into thin rings
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the wild rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook until tender and lightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add the butter to the skillet and stir until melted. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Fluff the cooked wild rice with a fork and add it to the skillet. Toss to combine with the leeks and herbs.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Rice and Cornbread Dressing
This savory dressing combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the warmth of cornbread and spices, perfect for accompanying your holiday turkey or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups cubed cornbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the celery and onion in butter until softened.
3. Add the cooked wild rice, cornbread, chicken broth, and seasonings to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Rice with Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the natural sweetness of roasted beets, tangy goat cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 large beets, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook wild rice according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Wild Rice and Chickpea Mediterranean Bowl
This hearty bowl combines nutty wild rice with protein-rich chickpeas, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy feta cheese for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the wild rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chickpeas, red bell pepper, cucumber, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat.
4. Once the wild rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add to the bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Wild Rice with Toasted Coconut and Lime
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and textured wild rice recipe, infused with the sweetness of toasted coconut and a squeeze of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°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.
4. While rice cooks, toast coconut in a small skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until lightly browned and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
5. In a separate pan, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened.
6. Fluff cooked wild rice with a fork, then stir in toasted coconut, sautéed onion mixture, and lime juice. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Rice and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory goodness of sausage with the nutty taste of wild rice. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned.
5. Add onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until onion is translucent.
6. Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture and top with cooked wild rice.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Rice with Roasted Carrots and Tahini Drizzle
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweetness of roasted carrots, topped off with a creamy tahini drizzle. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a side dish for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
5. To serve, combine cooked wild rice and roasted carrots in a bowl. Drizzle with tahini mixture and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of wild rice with these 20 flavor-packed recipes perfect for any occasion. From savory side dishes to sweet and satisfying salads, this collection offers something for everyone. Enjoy garlic butter wild rice with mushrooms, cranberry pecan pilaf, or lemon herb salad. Alternatively, try stuffing acorn squash with kale and wild rice or making a decadent wild rice and Brussels sprouts casserole. These creative recipes showcase the nutty flavor of wild rice and are sure to impress your family and friends.
