When looking to change up the grains we are eating, I love turning to rice, and in this case wild rice. Wild rice gives an earthy, more chewy texture that matches perfectly with dried fruit, nuts and herbs. This salad not only tastes delicious but it also looks impressive and is perfect to bring on a picnic, potluck or to serve at your next bbq.

Enjoy!

Ingredients –

Salad

• 1 2/3 cup wild rice or wild rice blend
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup pecan halves broken into pieces
• 1/2 cup roasted and salted pistachios (it not salted, use more salt in the dressing)
• 1/2 cup sliced radish
• 1 tbsp diced red onion
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions – the green parts only

Lemon Honey Dijon Vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper

Directions –

Cook the rice

1. 01. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. 02. While waiting for the water to boil, rinse rice to remove some of the starch.
3. 03. When water is boiling, add rice. Cook in the boiling water for 30 minutes. Taste the rice; should be cooked but firm. You do not want mushy rice. As cooking times vary by brand, you may need to cook a few minutes longer.
4. 04. Drain rice into a strainer with small holes. Run cold water over it to remove any remaining starch. Set aside and let cool.

Lemon Honey Dijon Vinaigrette

1. 01. In a medium bowl whisk all ingredients together until well combined. Another method: put all ingredients in a jar and shake until well combined.