Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are a delightful blend of seasonal ingredients that create a vibrant and nutritious meal. Perfect for cozy dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prep, these bowls are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor and health benefits. The combination of wild rice, roasted vegetables, and a sweet fig balsamic vinaigrette makes this dish a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with seasonal produce and wholesome grains, this recipe is both nourishing and satisfying.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal hands-on time, anyone can whip up this delicious meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins for a personalized twist.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them ideal for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Gluten-Free Option: Made with gluten-free chicken broth, this dish accommodates various dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gathering the right tools will make your experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Half sheet pan
• Parchment paper or nonstick foil
• Mixing bowl
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking the wild rice evenly without burning.
• Half sheet pan: Ideal for roasting vegetables evenly while allowing them to caramelize beautifully.
• Fork: Use it to fluff the rice after cooking so it doesn’t clump together.

Ingredients

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are full of healthy, fall-inspired ingredients. As delicious as they are gorgeous!

For the 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 (to taste)
• 9 oz thinly shredded brussels sprouts

For 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 (to taste)

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, turn heat down to low, and simmer for 40-50 minutes or until rice is tender. Verify liquid amount and cooking method with rice package directions. 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 with your fingertips to evenly coat. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until squash is tender, stirring halfway through. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Meanwhile, 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 with your fingertips to evenly coat. Add to the oven after stirring the squash then roast together for 8-10 minutes or until brussels sprouts are tender and golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl add cooked rice, roasted butternut squash, roasted brussels sprouts, apples, cheese, almonds, and dried cranberries. Drizzle Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette on top then toss to coat and serve.

This recipe serves six people and is great as a main course for any fall-inspired meal! Enjoy your Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette!

How to Serve Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are perfect for any gathering or a cozy family dinner. Their vibrant colors and flavors make them an eye-catching dish that everyone will love.

Individual Bowls

• Serve each bowl individually for a personal touch, allowing guests to appreciate the vibrant layers of flavors.

Family Style

• Present the Wild Rice Harvest Bowls in a large serving dish for a communal experience. This encourages sharing and conversation around the table.

Toppings Bar

• Create a toppings bar with extra ingredients such as crumbled feta, roasted nuts, or additional fruits. This allows guests to customize their bowls according to their taste.

Pair with Protein

• Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas on top of the bowls for added protein. This makes the meal more filling and suitable for various dietary preferences.

Use as Meal Prep

• Prepare portions in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week. The flavors meld beautifully over time, enhancing the taste.

Garnish Creatively

• Finish each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor and color. A sprinkle of pomegranate seeds can add delightful crunch and sweetness.

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How to Perfect Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

To make your Wild Rice Harvest Bowls truly stand out, consider these helpful tips. With just a few adjustments, you can elevate this delicious recipe even further.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh produce and high-quality olive oil can enhance the overall flavor of your bowls significantly.

• Customize Your Grains: While wild rice is recommended, feel free to mix in other grains like quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition.

• Balance Flavors: Ensure your dressing has a balanced acidity by adjusting the vinegar and fig jam ratios. Taste as you go!

• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to try different spices in your roasted vegetables. A hint of nutmeg or smoked paprika can add unique flavor profiles.

• Store Properly: For leftovers, store components separately to maintain freshness. Assemble them just before serving.

• Add Texture: Consider incorporating crunchy elements like crispy chickpeas or toasted seeds for an exciting contrast in texture.

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

Complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience alongside Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette. Here are some tasty suggestions:

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots and parsnips adds color and nutrients.

2. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread provides a comforting contrast to the freshness of the harvest bowls.

3. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette can offer a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the bowls.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa and black beans make for a hearty side option that pairs nicely.

5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a sweet element that complements the savory ingredients in your harvest bowls.

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses paired with fruit can serve as an elegant addition, enhancing the overall dining experience.

7. Fruit Salad: A bright fruit salad can refresh your palate between bites of rich wild rice bowls.

8. Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips creates a delightful starter that works well before diving into main dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Using the wrong rice: Selecting an inappropriate type of rice can alter the texture and flavor. Stick with Wild Blend Rice for optimal taste and consistency.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Roasting butternut squash and brussels sprouts for too long can lead to mushiness. Keep an eye on them and aim for a tender yet firm texture.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season properly can leave your bowls bland. Remember to add salt, pepper, and spices generously throughout the cooking process.
• Neglecting the vinaigrette: The Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette is crucial for flavor. Don’t skimp on this step; it ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
• Not allowing cooling time: Serving everything hot right away can lead to a soggy dish. Let roasted ingredients cool slightly before mixing them with the rice.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best taste.

Reheating Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, stirring frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette, here are some answers.

Can I use different vegetables in my Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding seasonal vegetables like sweet potatoes or kale.

How do I make the Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and fig jam for a quick vinaigrette that’s bursting with flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check all other ingredients.

How long does it take to prepare Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette?

The total preparation time is about 75 minutes, including cooking time for the rice and roasting vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are not only visually stunning but also packed with nutritious ingredients perfect for fall. This recipe offers great flexibility—feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or nuts. Try it today for a healthy meal that everyone will love!