Wild Rice and Pear Salad With a Light and Refreshing Vinaigrette

What kind of recipe is it?

Wild Rice and Pear Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish ideal for health-conscious individuals looking for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

This salad features the earthy nuttiness of wild rice paired with the sweet juiciness of fresh pears, complemented by crunchy nuts and a zesty dressing. Its unique blend of ingredients not only offers a visual feast but also provides a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish, it caters to vegetarians and anyone seeking a light yet fulfilling culinary experience.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Wild rice	1 cup
Fresh pears (ripe)	2 medium
Baby spinach	4 cups
Chopped walnuts	1/2 cup
Dried cranberries	1/3 cup
Feta cheese (crumbled)	1/2 cup
Olive oil	3 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar	2 tablespoons
Honey	1 tablespoon
Dijon mustard	1 teaspoon
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste

This thorough list outlines all the ingredients needed to prepare the Wild Rice and Pear Salad, ensuring you have everything at your disposal for a delightful culinary experience.

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Cooking Steps

1. Prepare your ingredients: Rinse 1 cup (240 ml) of wild rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch.

Chop 2 medium fresh pears into bite-sized pieces, chop 1/2 cup (60 g) of walnuts, and measure out 4 cups (120 g) of baby spinach.

2. Cook the wild rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice with 3 cups (720 ml) of water.

Bring to a boil over medium-high heat (190–200 °C / 375–400 °F). Reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the water.

The grains should split open slightly; let the rice cool.

3. Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of olive oil, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of honey, and 1 teaspoon (5 g) of Dijon mustard.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Toast the walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat (about 160–180 °C / 325–350 °F), add the chopped walnuts.

Toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

5. Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled wild rice, chopped pears, and baby spinach.

Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.

6. Add the remaining components: Gently fold in 1/3 cup (45 g) of dried cranberries and 1/2 cup (75 g) of crumbled feta cheese, taking care not to mash the pears or break the feta.

7. Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if necessary.

8. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls.

Optionally, garnish with extra walnuts and cranberries for visual appeal before serving.

9. Optional resting: Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your beautifully prepared Wild Rice and Pear Salad!

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Variations

Citrus Twist: Add the zest and juice of 1 orange (150 g) for a revitalizing citrus flavor that brightens the salad.
Protein-Packed: Incorporate grilled chicken breast (150 g) or chickpeas (1 cup / 240 g) for a heartier salad that boosts protein content.
Festive Fall: Replace pears with sliced apples (2 medium) and add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to complement autumn flavors.
Vegan Option: Omit feta cheese and honey; substitute with 1/3 cup (50 g) of avocado and 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of maple syrup for a creamy and sweet topping alternative.

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Tips on plating and presentation

When you want to impress your guests with your Wild Rice and Pear Salad, remember that presentation can elevate even the simplest dishes.

Use a vibrant colored plate to contrast the salad’s hues.

I like to layer the ingredients, placing the wild rice on the bottom topped with sliced pears and nuts.

Finish with a drizzle of vinaigrette for a fresh, beautiful effect.

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

After creating a stunning Wild Rice and Pear Salad, you might wonder what dishes would complement it beautifully.

I often pair it with grilled chicken or roasted duck, as their flavors enhance the salad’s freshness.

For a vegetarian option, a stuffed butternut squash works wonders.

Finally, a cheese platter featuring goat cheese or brie adds a creamy contrast that makes every bite delightful.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

To elevate your dining experience with the Wild Rice and Pear Salad, I recommend pairing it with a rejuvenating white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio.

If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a invigorating herbal iced tea can beautifully complement the salad’s flavors.

Enjoy exploring these drink options to enhance your meal!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the Salad Last in the Refrigerator?

Salad typically lasts about three to five days in the refrigerator. I always store it in an airtight container, and it’s best to add dressings right before serving to maintain freshness. Enjoy!

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, I can make this salad ahead of time! I’d recommend assembling it a day before and adding the vinaigrette just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful. Enjoy your meal prep!

Is This Salad Suitable for Vegan Diets?

I love that this salad fits perfectly into a vegan diet, thanks to its plant-based ingredients. It’s an invigorating choice that I can enjoy guilt-free, keeping my meals both delicious and ethical.

What Type of Wild Rice Should I Use?

I prefer using a mix of black and brown wild rice for its nutty flavor and chewy texture. It adds a delightful contrast to salads, elevating the overall taste and experience. Trust me, you’ll love it!

How Can I Adjust the Vinaigrette for Stronger Flavors?

I usually add more vinegar or citrus juice for a tangier kick. Sometimes, I toss in mustard or honey for depth, too. Experimenting with herbs or spices can really enhance the vinaigrette’s flavor profile.