Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are the perfect blend of healthy, seasonal ingredients. These bowls are not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor, making them ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. With wholesome components and a delightful fig balsamic vinaigrette, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Packed: Each bowl is loaded with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables and fruits.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and the sweet tang of fig balsamic vinaigrette elevate this dish to a new level.
• Versatile: Perfect as a meal on its own or as a side dish, these bowls can suit many different tastes.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 75 minutes.
• Gluten-Free: Made with gluten-free ingredients, these bowls are suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools beforehand. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating your Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Half sheet pans
• Parchment paper or nonstick foil
• Mixing bowl
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking wild rice evenly and efficiently.
• Half sheet pans: Provides ample space for roasting vegetables without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients while ensuring even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette require an assortment of fresh and wholesome components to create a deliciously balanced meal.

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 the Toppings

• 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, then 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 Fahrenheit. Line a half sheet pan with parchment paper or nonstick foil. Add butternut squash cubes, 1-1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together using your fingertips until evenly coated. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender, stirring halfway through. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

On another lined half sheet pan, add shredded brussels sprouts along with the remaining 1-1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat. Place in the oven after stirring the squash and roast for an additional 8-10 minutes until tender and golden brown. Allow cooling slightly afterward.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add cooked rice, roasted butternut squash, roasted brussels sprouts, chopped apples, cheese cubes, almonds (or pepitas), and dried cranberries. Drizzle the Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette over the top. Toss gently to coat everything evenly before serving.

Enjoy your delightful 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 versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering, these bowls offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.

As a Main Dish

• Serve as a hearty main course for lunch or dinner, providing a balanced meal packed with nutrients.

As a Lunch Meal Prep

• Prepare individual servings in containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week, making healthy eating simple.

With Extra Toppings

• Add additional toppings like avocado slices, pumpkin seeds, or feta cheese to enhance flavor and nutrition.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Present the bowls at festive occasions as a colorful centerpiece that celebrates seasonal ingredients.

How to Perfect Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Creating perfect Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette involves some careful considerations. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce enhances the flavor and texture of the dish. Choose seasonal fruits and vegetables for the best quality.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed to ensure the flavors pop.

• Let Ingredients Cool: Allow roasted ingredients to cool slightly before mixing. This prevents wilting and maintains crunchiness in your salad.

• Make Ahead: Prepare the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the fridge to save time on busy days.

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

Complement your Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with these delicious side dishes. They provide added variety and enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Roasted Vegetables – Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers in olive oil and roast until tender for a flavorful side.

2. Quinoa Salad – Combine cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, and lemon juice for a light and refreshing salad option.

3. Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread on the side for those who enjoy dipping it into their bowls or having a crunchy accompaniment.

4. Steamed Green Beans – Lightly steam fresh green beans and season with lemon zest and sea salt for a bright green addition.

5. Citrus Fruit Salad – A vibrant mix of oranges, grapefruits, and pomegranate seeds adds sweetness and freshness between bites.

6. Hummus Platter – Create a platter of hummus served with pita chips and fresh veggies for an extra protein boost alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can diminish the dish’s quality.

• Not measuring rice properly – Using too much or too little rice can affect the texture. Always measure your wild blend rice accurately for the best results.
• Overcooking the vegetables – Roasting for too long can lead to mushy veggies. Keep an eye on your butternut squash and brussels sprouts to achieve a perfect tenderness.
• Neglecting seasoning – Under-seasoning can make your bowl bland. Don’t forget to season each layer of ingredients with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
• Skipping the vinaigrette preparation – A pre-made dressing lacks freshness. Make your Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette from scratch to elevate the dish’s taste and aroma.
• Forgetting to fluff the rice – Fluffing the rice after cooking prevents it from becoming sticky. Use a fork to gently separate grains before combining with other ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot. Stir between heating sessions for even warming.
• Stovetop – In a skillet, add a splash of broth or water. Heat over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

You can substitute brown rice; however, adjust cooking times as brown rice usually takes longer to cook than wild rice.

How can I customize my Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Feel free to add different vegetables like roasted carrots or sweet potatoes. You can also swap out cheese types based on preference.

Are Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses gluten-free chicken broth and does not contain any wheat products.

What is the best way to serve these bowls?

Serve them warm topped with extra vinaigrette and fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are not only visually stunning but also packed with nutritious ingredients that celebrate fall flavors. This versatile recipe allows for endless customization—swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or nuts—and will surely become a go-to meal in your kitchen!