WARM WILD RICE SALAD WITH DRIED FRUIT AND NUTS

Warm Wild Rice Salad With Dried Fruit and Nuts image

Provided by Nikoma

Time 1h40m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 cup wild rice
2 1/2 cups water or 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons grated lemon zest
1 cup dried fruit (cherries, diced apricots, or cranberries)
1 cup dried currant
1 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
salt & freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

Soak wild rice in a bowl of water overnight.
Rinse and place rice in a medium-sized pot with water or broth.
Bring to a boil over high heat.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine remaining ingredients.
Add rice and toss to coat.
Serve immediately or let cool and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
From recipe creator - If making ahead, reheat rice salad on the stove top or bake at 350 degrees F. in a covered casserole dish for 20 minutes. (untried by me as of yet).
*Cook's note: For best results, soak dried fruit in hot water or warm juice for 15 minutes or more to rehydrate slightly and give the fruit a juicier, chewy texture.