Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful creation that perfectly balances the earthy goodness of wild rice and barley with the vibrant sweetness of cranberries and the refreshing zest of oranges. This Wild Rice and Cranberry Salad recipe is not just a dish—it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will elevate any meal to a whole new level of culinary excellence! With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cook time of 20 minutes, you can have this masterpiece ready to serve in just half an hour.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups wild rice
- 1 cup barley
- 1 orange, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrot
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon raspberry vinegar
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onion stems
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 369.3
- Fat: 11.6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 11mg
- Carbohydrates: 64.4g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 31.3g
- Protein: 6.3g
Instructions:
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Cook Wild Rice and Barley:
- Begin by cooking the wild rice and barley according to package instructions until they are tender yet still slightly firm to the bite, ensuring they maintain their chewy texture. Once cooked, drain any excess water and allow the grains to cool completely.
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Prepare the Ingredients:
- While the grains are cooking, take this time to prepare the remaining ingredients. Peel and dice the orange, shred the carrot, and thinly slice the green onion stems. These vibrant additions will not only enhance the visual appeal of your salad but also infuse it with layers of refreshing flavors.
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Mix All Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice and barley with the diced orange, shredded carrot, dried cranberries, and sliced green onion stems. Drizzle the honey over the mixture, followed by the olive oil and raspberry vinegar. Gently toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed and coated with the dressing.
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Chill Before Serving:
- Once the salad is thoroughly mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste experience, making each bite a delightful journey of culinary bliss.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- After the salad has chilled, give it a final toss to redistribute any dressing that may have settled at the bottom of the bowl. Then, serve it up on a platter or in individual bowls, garnishing with a few extra slices of green onion for a pop of color and freshness. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a light meal on its own, this Wild Rice and Cranberry Salad is sure to impress with its harmonious blend of flavors and wholesome goodness.
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Storage Tip:
- If you happen to have any leftovers (although it’s unlikely with a salad this delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The flavors may continue to develop over time, making each serving even more flavorful and satisfying.
Indulge in the exquisite flavors and nutritional benefits of this Wild Rice and Cranberry Salad, a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body from the inside out. Whether served as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a vibrant addition to your next potluck or gathering, this recipe is sure to earn rave reviews from all who have the pleasure of tasting it. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and culinary delights that await with each and every bite! 🥗✨
