Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. This dish showcases the rich taste of wild rice mixed with roasted vegetables, fresh fruits, and a tangy dressing that elevates it to something special. It’s not only beautiful but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal or festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with seasonal veggies and wholesome grains, this bowl is both filling and healthy.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a hearty main course or a side dish for gatherings, suitable for any season.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal equipment, you can whip this up in no time.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of fig balsamic vinaigrette adds a unique sweetness that enhances all the flavors.
• Gluten-Free Option: Made with gluten-free chicken broth and wild rice, it caters to various dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• saucepan
• half sheet pans
• parchment paper or nonstick foil
• mixing bowl
• fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Saucepan: Ideal for cooking the wild rice evenly while keeping moisture locked in.
• Half Sheet Pans: Great for roasting vegetables evenly; they help achieve that perfect caramelization.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients; ensures every bite is flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Wild Rice Base

• 1 cup Wild Blend Rice (Lundberg Wild Blend Rice recommended)
• 1-3/4 cups gluten free chicken broth

For the Roasted Vegetables

• 3 cups 1” butternut squash cubes (~1 small squash)
• 3 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
• salt and pepper
• 9 oz thinly shredded brussels sprouts

For the Toppings

• 1 large or 2 small apples (chopped)
• 3 oz white cheddar cheese (cut into cubes)
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds or pepitas
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries

For the Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 small clove garlic (pressed or very finely minced)
• 2 Tablespoons fig jam
• salt and pepper

How to Make Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice

Add Wild Blend Rice and chicken broth to a small saucepan then bring to a simmer. Place a lid on top, lower heat, and simmer for 40–50 minutes or until rice is tender. Fluff with a fork then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a half sheet pan with parchment paper or nonstick sprayed foil. Add butternut squash cubes, 1–1/2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Roast for 15–20 minutes until tender, stirring halfway through. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Line another half sheet pan with parchment paper or nonstick sprayed foil. Add shredded brussels sprouts, remaining 1–1/2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Add to the oven after stirring the squash; roast together for 8–10 minutes until brussels sprouts are tender and golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl add cooked rice, roasted butternut squash, roasted brussels sprouts, chopped apples, cubed cheese, almonds or pepitas, and dried cranberries. Drizzle Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette on top then toss everything gently to coat before serving.

How to Serve Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette make a stunning centerpiece for any meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these bowls can be enhanced with various toppings and accompaniments.

Add Fresh Greens

• Spinach or Arugula: Toss in some fresh spinach or arugula for added crunch and nutrition.
• Mixed Baby Greens: A blend of baby greens can add color and texture to your dish.

Include Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Adding sliced grilled chicken can elevate the bowl into a heartier meal.
• Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas provide a great vegetarian protein option, adding both flavor and texture.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
• Thyme or Sage Leaves: A few leaves of thyme or sage can enhance the autumn flavors of this dish.

Serve with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Pair your harvest bowl with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious vinaigrette.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Garlic breadsticks offer a warm, comforting side that complements the bowl well.

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How to Perfect Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

To ensure your Wild Rice Harvest Bowls are perfect every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Quality Rice: Choosing high-quality wild rice will enhance the flavor and texture of your bowl.
• Roast Veggies Until Tender: Make sure your butternut squash and Brussels sprouts are tender and slightly caramelized for better taste.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the seasoning in the vinaigrette to find the right balance between sweet and tangy.
• Let Ingredients Cool Slightly: Allowing roasted veggies to cool before mixing helps maintain their texture in the bowl.

Best Side Dishes for Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls pair beautifully with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide comfort alongside your bowl.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, parsnips, and beets enhances the seasonal theme.
3. Crispy Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in olive oil make a crunchy, flavorful side.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds another layer of nutrition.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and protein create an eye-catching dish.
6. Cauliflower Rice Pilaf: Light cauliflower rice pilaf offers a low-carb option that pairs well with the hearty bowl.
7. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: Sweet potato wedges seasoned with spices add sweetness and texture to your meal.
8. Cheesy Garlic Bread: This delightful side adds richness and is perfect for sopping up any leftover vinaigrette.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks encounter challenges when preparing Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring rice cooking instructions: Always check the package directions for your Wild Blend Rice. Different brands may have varying cooking times and liquid requirements.
• Overcrowding the pan: When roasting vegetables like butternut squash and brussels sprouts, make sure they are spread out on the sheet pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, affecting texture.
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning each layer of ingredients is key. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to both the rice and roasted veggies for balanced flavors.
• Using low-quality olive oil: The quality of olive oil affects the flavor of your vinaigrette. Choose a good extra virgin olive oil for the best results in your dressing.
• Not letting ingredients cool: Allow cooked ingredients to cool slightly before mixing them together. This helps maintain their texture and prevents wilting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Keep the vinaigrette separate if possible, to maintain freshness.

Freezing Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette that might help you.

Can I use other types of rice?

Yes! While Wild Blend Rice adds unique flavor, you can substitute it with brown or jasmine rice if preferred.

What can I replace brussels sprouts with?

You can use kale or spinach as alternatives. These leafy greens will complement the dish well.

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all components a day ahead. Just assemble before serving for best freshness.

How should I adjust the recipe for fewer servings?

To reduce servings, simply halve the ingredient quantities while keeping the same cooking method for optimal results.

Final Thoughts

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are not only visually appealing but also versatile and nutritious. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite seasonal vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for meal prep or as a comforting dinner option that everyone will love!