Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a cozy, wholesome dish that truly captures the essence of fall, then you’ll adore these Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette. This recipe is a celebration of vibrant flavors and textures, featuring earthy wild rice paired with sweet roasted butternut squash, crunchy apples, and crispy brussels sprouts. It’s not just about taste; it’s about bringing warmth to your table during busy weeknights or special family gatherings.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can whip it up for a cozy dinner or serve it at a festive gathering, and it never fails to impress! Plus, the Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette adds a delightful zing that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with seasonal produce and wholesome grains, this dish is as beneficial as it is delicious.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this dish without stress.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love the sweetness of the apples and cranberries, making it a hit for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare components in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The colorful ingredients create an eye-catching meal that’s perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create our Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette. Each one plays an important role in building flavor and nutrition.

For the Bowl

• 1 cup Wild Blend Rice (Lundberg Wild Blend Rice recommended)
• 1-3/4 cups gluten free chicken broth
• 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
• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas for a protein boost that keeps this dish plant-based.
• Use different veggies: Try roasted sweet potatoes or steamed green beans instead of brussels sprouts for variety.
• Change up the nuts: Substitute walnuts or sunflower seeds if you prefer nuts with a different flavor profile.
• Try alternative cheeses: A dairy-free cheese option works beautifully for those avoiding animal products.

How to Make Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice

Start by adding your Wild Blend Rice and gluten-free chicken broth to a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid, and turn the heat down low. Letting it simmer for 40-50 minutes allows the rice to absorb all those lovely flavors from the broth. Once it’s tender, fluff it with a fork and set aside to cool slightly. This step is key because perfectly cooked rice forms the base of our hearty bowl.

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit while you prepare the butternut squash. Line a half sheet pan with parchment paper or nonstick foil for easy cleanup. Toss your squash cubes with 1-1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a lovely caramelization—about 15-20 minutes should do it!

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While your squash is roasting away, prepare another half sheet pan lined similarly. Combine shredded brussels sprouts with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper before tossing everything together. Once your squash is ready, pop these in the oven too! Roasting them until golden brown adds depth to their flavor—this will take around 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked rice with roasted butternut squash, roasted brussels sprouts, chopped apples, cheese cubes, sliced almonds (or pepitas), and dried cranberries. Drizzle that fabulous Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette over everything before giving it all a toss to coat evenly. This final step melds all those delicious flavors together beautifully—serve immediately and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Creating the perfect Wild Rice Harvest Bowl is all about attention to detail and a little creativity! Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Use high-quality rice: Choosing a good quality Wild Blend Rice, like Lundberg, enhances both the texture and flavor of your dish.

• Perfectly roast your veggies: Ensure you roast your butternut squash and brussels sprouts until they’re golden brown; this caramelization adds a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor.

• Customize your toppings: Feel free to swap out ingredients like apples or cheese based on what you have on hand. Adding nuts or seeds also provides great crunch and nutrition!

• Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. The flavors meld beautifully when stored in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

• Experiment with dressings: While fig balsamic vinaigrette is delicious, don’t hesitate to try other dressings like a maple mustard or lemon tahini for a different twist!

How to Serve Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Serving your Wild Rice Harvest Bowl beautifully will not only impress your guests but also make for an inviting meal. Here are some ideas for presentation that will elevate this dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Microgreens: These delicate greens provide a gourmet touch and enhance the nutritional value without overpowering the other flavors.
• Citrus zest: A sprinkle of lemon or orange zest can brighten up the flavors and add an aromatic finish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Green Beans: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, these green beans offer a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the harvest bowl.

• Quinoa Salad: A light salad featuring quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the rich flavors of the rice bowl.

• Steamed Broccoli: Simply steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice is an easy addition that provides vibrant color and boosts nutrition.

• Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges seasoned with paprika can add sweetness and crunch alongside your harvest bowl.

Enjoy crafting this delightful recipe, and let every bite fill you with warmth as you celebrate the bounties of fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store the components separately, making it simple to enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-5 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Portion individual servings into freezer-safe containers.
• Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Label each container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use other types of rice in Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Yes! While wild rice adds a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute it with brown rice or quinoa if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times according to the rice package instructions.

How long do Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette stay fresh?

When stored properly, these bowls can last in the fridge for about 3-5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them as mentioned above!

Can I make Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative to keep these bowls fully vegan.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to mix in your favorite seasonal vegetables, like roasted sweet potatoes or kale. You can also swap out almonds for walnuts or sunflower seeds based on your preference!

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free broth and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope this delightful recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! The combination of flavors in these Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette makes them not only a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing meal for your body. Enjoy making them as much as I enjoyed sharing them with you! Happy cooking!