Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are a delightful blend of seasonal flavors and textures, making them perfect for any occasion. This dish combines wholesome ingredients that celebrate the best of fall while being visually stunning. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy family dinner or preparing a meal prep option for the week, these bowls are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and whole grains, this dish provides essential nutrients.
• Flavorful: The fig balsamic vinaigrette adds a unique sweetness that complements the savory ingredients perfectly.
• Versatile: Customizable to your taste; add or swap ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this beautiful dish.
• Great for Meal Prep: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them ideal for weekday lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or nonstick foil
• Mixing bowl
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking rice evenly without burning.
• Baking sheets: Ideal for roasting vegetables to achieve caramelization and flavor enhancement.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are full of healthy, fall-inspired ingredients. As delicious as they are gorgeous!

For the Wild Rice Base

• 1 cup Wild Blend Rice (Lundberg Wild Blend Rice recommended)
• 1-3/4 cups gluten free chicken broth

For the Roasted Vegetables

• 3 cups 1” butternut squash cubes (~1 small squash)
• 3 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 9 oz thinly shredded brussels sprouts

For Additional Ingredients

• 1 large or 2 small apples (chopped)
• 3 oz white cheddar cheese (cut into cubes)
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds or pepitas
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries

For the Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 small clove garlic (pressed or very finely minced)
• 2 Tablespoons fig jam
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice

Add Wild Blend Rice and chicken broth to a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer, cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 40-50 minutes or until rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add butternut squash cubes, 1-1/2 Tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender, stirring halfway through. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

On another lined baking sheet, add shredded brussels sprouts along with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss together and roast in the oven alongside the squash for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, roasted butternut squash, roasted brussels sprouts, chopped apples, cheese cubes, almonds or pepitas, and dried cranberries. Drizzle with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette on top then toss gently to coat before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette!

How to Serve Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are not just a feast for the eyes; they also offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Add Fresh Greens

• Toss in some baby spinach or arugula for an extra layer of freshness. The greens will complement the rich flavors of the bowl.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Pair your bowls with warm, crusty bread. A nice baguette or sourdough can be perfect for scooping up all the delicious ingredients.

Incorporate Grilled Chicken

• For those who want more protein, add slices of grilled chicken on top. It will enhance the meal while keeping it hearty.

Drizzle Extra Vinaigrette

• Offer additional Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette on the side. This way, guests can customize their bowls to their liking with more flavor.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top. This adds a pop of color and enhances the overall taste profile.

How to Perfect Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Creating the perfect Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette is easier than you think. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality rice. This will significantly improve the overall flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your roasted vegetables before combining them into the bowl. You may want to adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference.
• Cool Ingredients Before Mixing: Allow roasted veggies and rice to cool slightly before mixing. This helps maintain their texture and prevents wilting.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to swap out cheese or nuts based on what you have at home. A sprinkle of feta or sunflower seeds can work beautifully too.

Best Side Dishes for Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

To complement your Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette, consider these delicious side dishes that enhance the meal’s overall appeal.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Mix seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers tossed in olive oil and herbs to bring bright colors and flavors.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft grains in the harvest bowl.
4. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in vinegar adds a crispness that balances out the richness of the main dish.
5. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans seasoned with lemon zest offer a bright flavor and vibrant color.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet counterpoint to the savory elements in your harvest bowl while adding crunch.
7. Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and makes for a light finishing touch.
8. Chickpea Salad: A chickpea salad seasoned with herbs provides protein and complements the other ingredients nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Not rinsing the rice – Failing to rinse wild rice can lead to a gritty texture. Always rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch.
• Overcooking the squash – If butternut squash is overcooked, it can become mushy. Roast it just until tender for the best texture.
• Skipping the seasoning – Neglecting to season each component can result in bland bowls. Be sure to season the rice, squash, and brussels sprouts adequately as you prepare them.
• Using low-quality broth – A subpar broth can dull flavors in your dish. Opt for a high-quality gluten-free chicken broth for richer taste.
• Forgetting the vinaigrette – The fig balsamic vinaigrette is key for flavor. Don’t skip this step; drizzle it generously over your ingredients before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Wild Rice Harvest Bowls in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and reheat covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Warm in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette.

Can I use different types of rice?

Yes, while wild rice adds unique flavor and texture, you can substitute it with brown rice or quinoa if preferred.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes! The Wild Rice Harvest Bowls are vegetarian-friendly. You may replace white cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative for a vegan version.

How do I customize my Wild Rice Harvest Bowls?

Feel free to add your favorite seasonal vegetables or nuts! Roasted carrots or walnuts would complement this dish beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep components separately and store them. Combine just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are not only visually stunning but also packed with nutritious ingredients. This dish is versatile—feel free to customize it based on seasonal produce or personal preferences. Enjoy trying out different variations!