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Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf

This Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf is a hearty and colorful dish that’s as beautiful on the table as it is delicious to eat. With nutty wild rice, sweet-tart cranberries, and crunchy toasted pecans, it’s the perfect side for holiday feasts.
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup wild rice blend or plain wild rice for stronger nutty flavor
  • 2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth for richer flavor, use broth instead of water
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup dried cranberries or dried cherries for variation
  • ½ cup pecans toasted and roughly chopped (walnuts or almonds can be used instead)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (or thyme for a more earthy flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional Add-Ins:
  • ½ cup diced carrots or celery for extra texture
  • Zest of 1 orange for a citrus twist
  • A handful of baby spinach stirred in at the end for color and nutrients

Instructions
 

  • Cook the rice: Rinse wild rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine wild rice and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40–45 minutes (or according to package directions) until rice is tender and has a nutty, chewy texture. Drain any excess liquid if needed.
  • Toast the nuts: While rice cooks, place pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and slightly golden. Set aside.
  • Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion (and optional carrots/celery if using) and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add garlic and cook another 1 minute.
  • Combine: Add cooked wild rice to the skillet with sautéed vegetables. Stir in dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and fresh parsley. Mix gently to combine.
  • Season & finish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. For extra brightness, stir in a bit of orange zest or a squeeze of lemon juice.
  • Serve: Transfer pilaf to a serving dish and garnish with additional parsley and toasted pecans for a beautiful presentation.
Keyword Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf
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