Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf

As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, the festive spirit begins to blossom, inviting us to gather around the table with family and friends. One dish that captures the essence of this season is the Festive Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf. This vibrant and flavorful dish not only complements holiday feasts but also stands out as a nutritious option that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, this pilaf is sure to become a cherished addition to your holiday recipes.

Celebrate the season with the Festive Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf, a lovely blend of flavors that brings warmth to any gathering. This vibrant dish combines the nutty chewiness of wild rice with tart cranberries and sweet apples, creating a deliciously nourishing option. Perfect as a side or main dish, it's packed with nutrients and ideal for holiday meals. Discover how each ingredient contributes to this comforting, visually appealing recipe, making it a must-try for your festive table.

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Ingredients

1 cup wild rice blend

2 cups vegetable broth

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium apple, peeled and diced (preferably Granny Smith)

1 cup fresh or dried cranberries

1 cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Wild Rice: Rinse the wild rice blend under cold water. In a medium pot, add the rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Cook the Apple: Stir in the diced apple, cranberries, dried thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the apple to soften slightly and the cranberries to plump up.

Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked wild rice to the skillet, mixing well to combine all ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to heat everything through.

Finish and Serve: Gently fold in the toasted pecans. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 1 hr 10 min | 4 servings