Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of fall, look no further than these Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette! This recipe has a special place in my heart because it combines wholesome ingredients with vibrant flavors, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or busy weeknight meals. The beautiful colors and textures make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients that will keep everyone feeling good!

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to treat yourself to something delicious and healthy, these harvest bowls are here to impress. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the mix of flavors and textures in every bite!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepping components ahead of time means you can enjoy this dish even on the busiest days.
• Deliciously nutritious: Packed with healthy ingredients, this bowl is as nourishing as it is satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish. Each element adds its unique flavor and texture, making every bite a delight!

For the Bowls

• 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, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the cheese: Use goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Change up the nuts: Try walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for an added crunch.
• Add more veggies: Toss in roasted sweet potatoes, kale, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Make it grain-free: Substitute cauliflower rice for wild rice to keep it low-carb.

How to Make Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Add your Wild Blend Rice and gluten-free chicken broth to a small saucepan. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before covering with a lid and reducing the heat. Cooking it low and slow allows the rice to absorb all those wonderful flavors. It should take about 40-50 minutes until tender—just fluff it up with a fork when done!

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash

While your rice cooks, preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Line a half-sheet pan with parchment paper or nonstick foil. Toss those beautiful butternut squash cubes with 1-1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper right on the pan. Roasting them caramelizes their natural sugars and enhances their sweetness—yum! Bake until tender for about 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Roast Brussels Sprouts

On another half-sheet pan lined similarly, toss your shredded brussels sprouts with the remaining olive oil as well as salt and pepper. These little greens add great texture! Add them to the oven after stirring the squash; they’ll roast quickly—just 8-10 minutes until they’re golden brown.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked rice, roasted butternut squash, roasted brussels sprouts, chopped apples, cubed cheese, sliced almonds or pepitas, and dried cranberries. Drizzle that delightful Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette over everything before tossing gently to coat. Serve right away and enjoy this hearty meal that celebrates all things autumn!

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

Creating a delicious Wild Rice Harvest Bowl is easy, and with a few extra tips, you can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Choosing fresh produce enhances the flavors and textures of your dish. Seasonal ingredients not only taste better but also provide the best nutrition.
• Customize the Cheese: Feel free to swap white cheddar for other cheeses like feta or goat cheese. This allows you to personalize the flavor profile while ensuring it fits your dietary preferences.
• Roast Evenly: When roasting vegetables, ensure they are spread out evenly on the baking sheet. This promotes even cooking and browning, which adds depth to the flavors.
• Make Extra Vinaigrette: Preparing a bit more of the Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette allows you to drizzle it on leftovers or use it as a marinade for other dishes throughout the week.
• Prep Ahead of Time: You can cook the rice and roast the vegetables in advance. This makes assembly quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or meal preps.

How to Serve Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

These beautiful bowls are not only nutritious but also visually appealing! Presenting them in a way that highlights their vibrant colors will make mealtime feel special.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Crumbled Feta Cheese: A sprinkle of feta adds a creamy tang that complements the sweetness of the figs and roasted veggies beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans roasted with garlic provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy elements in your bowl, enhancing both flavor and texture.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing side that pairs perfectly with the richness of the harvest bowl.
• Crispy Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices add an extra protein boost while providing delightful crunchiness alongside your harvest bowl.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice is a light accompaniment that balances out the hearty components of the main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette will be as delightful to eat as they are to behold! Enjoy this wholesome dish that celebrates the flavors of fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week. You can easily store leftovers or prepare components in advance to save time.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The dish is best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette separate until ready to serve to maintain the textures of the ingredients.

Freezing

• For long-term storage, freeze the individual components (rice, squash, brussels sprouts) separately.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for quality.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
• Warm until heated through, then drizzle with fresh Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette that might help you out!

Can I use other grains instead of wild rice?

Yes! While this recipe shines with wild rice, you can substitute with quinoa or brown rice if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How long do Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these bowls will last about 3-4 days in the fridge.

What can I add to my Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Feel free to get creative! Adding roasted vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes goes wonderfully with this dish. You could also toss in some chickpeas for extra protein.

Is there a vegan alternative for the cheese?

Absolutely! You can replace white cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese option or simply omit it for a lighter dish. Nutritional yeast is another great way to add a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette! This recipe celebrates the vibrant flavors of fall while being nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re prepping meals for busy weekdays or looking for a delightful dinner idea, these bowls are sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy making them and sharing them with family and friends—there’s something special about gathering around good food!

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