This delicious Wild Rice with Cranberries and Orange Zest comes together in about 45 minutes and is made all in one pot for a quick and easy weeknight meal that your family will love! You can easily switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or use it as a perfect “clean out the fridge” meal to get rid of leftovers and odds and ends! Seriously, it’s that versatile!
Ingredients Breakdown
Before I dive into how to whip up this dish, let’s chat about the star players in this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup wild rice: This isn’t your average rice. Wild rice has a nutty flavor and chewy texture that makes it truly special.
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water: Using vegetable broth amps up the flavor, but if you don’t have it, plain ol’ water works just fine too!
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries: They add a delightful sweetness and a pop of color (and nutrients!).
- 1 orange: We’ll be zesting and juicing this beauty. The citrus aroma is heavenly!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A little oil goes a long way; it keeps things from sticking and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 small onion, chopped: This makes for the perfect aromatic base, getting nice and sweet as it cooks.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a couple pinches to elevate all those flavors!
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth.
- 1/4 cup toasted nuts (optional, for garnish): Nuts add a satisfying crunch; pecans or walnuts are great options!
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Because who doesn’t love a vibrant pop of green?
Let’s Get Cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Rinse the rice: Start by rinsing the wild rice under cold water. This removes any dust and helps the rice cook better. Seriously, just a quick rinse in a fine mesh strainer will do.
Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice and 2 cups of vegetable broth or water. Bring this to a boil and then reduce the heat to low, cover it up and let it simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender. While it’s cooking, you’ll be multitasking and prepping the cranberries!
Sauté the onion: In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Just wait until you smell that sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen, heavenly!
Add the cranberries: Toss in the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cranberries begin to soften. You’ll know it’s ready when everything starts smelling fruity and delicious!
Combine the rice: Once the wild rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the cranberry mixture. Stir gently to combine, oh man, it looks gorgeous!
Garnish and serve: Serve this comforting dish warm, garnished with toasted nuts and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that inviting pop of color.
That’s it! You’ve just created a satisfying and beautiful Wild Rice with Cranberries and Orange Zest that’s bound to impress!
Why I Love This Recipe
This is my go-to recipe when I need something quick but crave comfort food. I’m a real sucker for meals that look as good as they taste, and honestly? This dish nails both. The best part is the versatility, whether it’s cranberries, nuts, or even throwing in some leftover veggies, you can use whatever you’ve got on hand, which is a lifesaver! It’s perfect for a family meal, or for when friends drop by and you want to whip up something impressive but not fussy.
If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my:
What Makes This Recipe Special
Quick & Easy
This dish comes together in under 45 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something nutritious and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!
One Pot Wonder
Minimal cleanup is required since everything is cooked in one pot! This means more time enjoying dinner with your family and less time scrubbing pots and pans. Yes, please!
Comfort Food
Every bite is loaded with robust flavors and textures. The chewy wild rice, tart cranberries, and sweet orange zest create a cozy bowl of flavor that feels like a hug in a dish.
Customizable
You can totally switch out the ingredients as you like! Don’t have cranberries? Try dried apricots! Need some greens? Toss in baby spinach just before serving for a fresh touch. It’s all about making it work for you.
Budget-Friendly
Using affordable, everyday ingredients, this recipe is not only easy but also budget-friendly! That means you can serve your family a delicious meal without breaking the bank!
Serving Suggestions
This delightful Wild Rice with Cranberries and Orange Zest pairs beautifully with your favorite proteins, making it a versatile option for any meal! Here are some suggestions:
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, flavorful grilled chicken makes a lovely pair with the nuttiness of wild rice.
- Pan-Seared Salmon: The light citrus notes in this dish complement the richness of salmon perfectly!
- Vegan Option: Serve with roasted or grilled seasonal vegetables for a hearty, plant-based meal.
Storage Tips: This dish lasts in the fridge for about 3-4 days in an airtight container; just make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing!
Reheating Instructions
For the best results, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems a bit dry. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat!
Freezer Friendly?
Yes! You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Food really brings us together, doesn’t it? That’s why I’m always on the hunt for quick and easy meals that not only taste amazing but also make life a little simpler. So, gather your loved ones, and whip up this incredible Wild Rice with Cranberries and Orange Zest for a dinner that’s sure to be a hit! Enjoy!
Using these simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that not only nourishes but also delights. Get ready for tons of compliments when you serve this sweet and savory bowl of goodness. Happy cooking! For more Recipes Follow Us in our Pinterest.
Print
Wild Rice with Cranberries and Orange Zest
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious one-pot dish featuring wild rice, cranberries, and orange zest, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
- 1 orange (zested and juiced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup toasted nuts (optional, for garnish)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse the wild rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice and 2 cups of vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45-50 minutes until tender.
- In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the wild rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and combine it with the cranberry mixture in the skillet. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve warm, garnished with toasted nuts and chopped parsley.
Notes
This dish is customizable; feel free to switch ingredients based on what you have. Great for using up leftovers!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
