Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of seasonal fall flavors and textures

• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly

• Great as a holiday side or standalone dish

• Combines sweet, savory, and tart elements perfectly

• Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats

• Easy to make in one skillet

• Customizable with your favorite nuts or fruits

• Works well warm or at room temperature

• A beautiful and colorful addition to any table

• Leftovers reheat well for meal prep

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Wild rice

• Vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

• Onion, finely chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Apple, diced (preferably tart, like Granny Smith)

• Fresh or frozen cranberries

• Dried cranberries or raisins

• Chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted)

• Fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme)

• Cinnamon

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Rinse the wild rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft.

3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.

4. Stir in diced apple, fresh cranberries, dried cranberries or raisins, thyme, and cinnamon. Cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the apples to soften and cranberries to begin bursting.

5. Add the cooked wild rice to the skillet and mix well to combine.

6. Stir in toasted pecans or walnuts and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.

7. Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Make it vegan: Use vegetable broth and ensure no animal-based add-ins.

• Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken, turkey, or chickpeas for a main dish.

• Change the fruit: Substitute pears for apples or use a sweeter variety if preferred.

• Nut-free: Omit nuts or use pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.

• Spiced-up version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or clove for extra warmth.

• Use a rice blend: Try a wild rice blend for a quicker cooking time and added color.

• Add greens: Stir in spinach or kale just before serving for a nutrient boost.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. It can also be microwaved for 1–2 minutes per serving.

This pilaf also freezes well. Let it cool completely, then freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this pilaf ahead of time?

Yes, it holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or holiday planning.

Can I use white or brown rice instead of wild rice?

You can, but wild rice provides a unique nutty flavor and chewy texture. Brown rice is a good substitute if needed.

Are fresh cranberries required?

Fresh or frozen cranberries work best, but you can increase the dried cranberries slightly if fresh aren’t available.

Can I make this nut-free?

Yes, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

What type of apple is best for this recipe?

Tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well and provide a nice balance to the sweetness of the cranberries.

Is this dish served hot or cold?

It’s best warm or at room temperature, making it flexible for serving during large meals or buffets.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, cooked shredded chicken or turkey makes a great protein addition for a complete meal.

How do I toast the nuts?

Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes, or toast in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, dried thyme works well in this recipe—just use half the amount of fresh.

How can I make this dish more festive for the holidays?

Add pomegranate seeds, chopped dried apricots, or a sprinkle of goat cheese for extra color and richness.

Conclusion

Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf is a perfect celebration of fall flavors, blending sweet, tart, and savory into a hearty, nutritious dish. With its beautiful colors and satisfying textures, it’s just as suitable for weeknight meals as it is for special holiday spreads. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this pilaf is a comforting and wholesome addition to any table.