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As autumn rolls in with its crisp air and vibrant foliage, the culinary landscape transforms, inviting hearty, wholesome dishes into our kitchens. One such dish that embodies the essence of the season is the Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Salad. This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the crisp sweetness of apples and the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful symphony of tastes and textures. With its colorful ingredients and nourishing profile, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of health, making it an ideal addition to your fall and winter gatherings.

Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of the Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Salad, an ideal dish for autumn gatherings. This nutritious salad combines nutty wild rice, crisp apples, and tart cranberries, offering a delightful mix of tastes and textures. Packed with health benefits, it's rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a powerhouse of nutrition. Whether served at a holiday feast or as a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress with its stunning presentation and delicious taste. Enjoy the seasonal bounty in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup wild rice, rinsed thoroughly

3 cups water or vegetable broth

1 crisp apple (preferably Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and diced

1 cup fresh or dried cranberries

1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional for added creaminess)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Dressing:

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (optional for a hint of sweetness)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Wild Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice and 3 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes until the rice is tender and some grains have burst. After cooking, drain any excess liquid and fluff the rice with a fork. Allow it to cool completely before proceeding.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup (if you choose to add sweetness), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are well blended. Taste your dressing and adjust the seasoning if desired.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled wild rice along with the diced apple, cranberries, chopped pecans or walnuts, finely chopped celery, diced red onion, and chopped parsley. If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top for a deliciously creamy addition.

        Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

          Chill & Serve: Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time helps the flavors meld beautifully. You can serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect side dish for any meal or a refreshing, wholesome main course on its own.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 1 hr 10 min | Serves 4-6 people

              Optional Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley or a few whole cranberries on top before serving. Enjoy!