SNOQUALMIE WILD RICE APPLE SALAD

Steps:

• Put rice in a bowl and rinse under running water for 2 minutes, then drain.
• Pour rice into a large saucepan, add the water and salt, and bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat to low and simmer for 35 minutes or until rice is just tender and al dente (how long to simmer, exactly, depends on your wild rice; the water will probably not be all absorbed).
• Drain and place in a large bowl, then add the prepared apple, red bell pepper, currants (raisins can be substituted, but will be sweeter and salad won't taste the same - currants are preferred), pecans, and onion; stir to combine.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the balsamic, oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
• Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and stir well.
• Serve immediately or chill up to 4 hours (I prefer it chilled for at least an hour, then tossed again before serving).
• Note: also good with 1/4 cup dried cranberries.