Description

Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf is a hearty and colorful autumn dish featuring nutty wild rice, tart cranberries, sweet apples, and toasted nuts. Perfect as a wholesome side or main dish, it’s rich in flavor, texture, and nutrients, making it a festive choice for holidays or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups wild rice

4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large tart apple (such as Granny Smith), diced

1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Rinse the wild rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine it with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45–50 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Stir in apple, fresh cranberries, dried cranberries or raisins, thyme, and cinnamon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until apples soften and cranberries begin to burst.
Add the cooked wild rice and stir to combine.
Mix in toasted pecans or walnuts. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 2–3 more minutes until heated through.
Remove from heat and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best balance of flavors.

Swap nuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.

For extra color and holiday flair, add pomegranate seeds or dried apricots.

Make it a main dish by adding chickpeas, chicken, or turkey.

Dried thyme can be substituted for fresh thyme (use half the amount).

Dish can be served warm or at room temperature, ideal for buffets.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 280
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 0mg