Ever Ready: Wild Rice Casserole

Monday, June 1, 2020

Wild Rice Casserole

Wild rice is a special type of grain that's chewy and tasty. It's higher in protein than regular rice and contains several important nutrients and an impressive amount of antioxidants. What's more, eating wild rice may improve heart health and lower your risk of type 2 diabetes.

Cooked wild rice has about 30 per cent fewer calories than brown rice as well as 40 per cent more protein. It also contains more fibre, potassium and zinc. Both options are gluten-free and rich in antioxidants and both make nutritious and delicious alternatives to white rice.
Harvesting wild rice is a time consuming job, lucky for us there are bags to buy at the grocery store.

Cooking tip:One cup of uncooked wild rice makes about three cups of cooked wild rice. There are multiple uses for wild rice including: salads, hot dishes, sups, pancakes, muffins, breads.

Wild Rice Casserole

Cook's Notes: Recipe serves 6-8 and thanks to Becky for a wonderful side to a salmon grilled dinner. Note her creative touch to this Midwestern dish, a sprig of pine.
Recipe can be served at room temperature.

Ingredients:

1-1/2 cups uncooked wild rice
1 bouillon cube for flavor (vegetable, chicken or beef)
1/2 cup onion, diced
1 cup peas, fresh or frozen
1 garlic clove, diced
1/4 cup sherry
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup slivered almonds or pecans
Optional add-ins: chopped celery, fresh spinach, red cabbage, chopped tomatoes
Bottled Vinaigrette Dressing

Directions:

Cook wild rice according to package directions, adding in bouillon cube to water.
Drain, rinse and cool. In a large bowl add in onions, garlic, peas, sherry, salt and pepper, nuts, and any other add ins. Mix well and serve at room temperature or warmed slightly in oven or on stove.
Mix in vinaigrette dressing right before serving.

Looking for more wild rice dishes? Check out some of these favorites from Ever Ready.

Wild Rice Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash, Dried Cherries and Pomegranates