Best 2 Wild Rice And Squash Pilaf Recipes

Embark on a culinary journey with our tantalizing wild rice and squash pilaf, a harmonious blend of earthy flavors and vibrant colors. This delectable dish features a medley of textures, from the tender wild rice and soft, caramelized squash to the crisp, nutty pecans. Infused with aromatic spices and the subtle sweetness of maple syrup, each bite is a symphony of flavors.

This recipe collection offers three variations to cater to diverse dietary preferences and culinary inclinations. The Classic Wild Rice and Squash Pilaf is a timeless delight, showcasing the natural goodness of these wholesome ingredients. For a touch of indulgence, the Wild Rice Pilaf with Roasted Butternut Squash and Dried Cranberries adds a vibrant twist, while the Vegan Wild Rice and Squash Pilaf is a delectable plant-based option that doesn't compromise on taste.

Whether you're seeking a comforting side dish, a hearty main course, or a festive holiday offering, these wild rice and squash pilaf recipes are sure to impress. Each variation offers a unique flavor profile, ensuring that there's something for every palate. So gather your ingredients, prepare your taste buds, and let's embark on this culinary adventure together!

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

WILD AND BROWN RICE PILAF WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND DRIED CRANBERRIES

Wild and Brown Rice Pilaf with Butternut Squash and Dried Cranberries image

Categories Rice Vegetable Side Sauté Christmas Thanksgiving Low Fat Vegetarian High Fiber Cranberry Butternut Squash Fall Healthy Vegan Christmas Eve Bon Appétit

Yield Makes 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 15

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped peeled carrot
1 tablespoon minced peeled ginger
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 garlic clove, minced
3 cups 1/2-inch cubes peeled seeded butternut squash
1 cup wild rice
1 cup long-grain brown rice
1 Fuji apple, peeled, cored, diced
1 cinnamon stick
3 3/4 cups water
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 cup dried cranberries

Steps:

Heat oil in heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and carrot; sauté 5 minutes. Add ginger, curry powder, cumin, and garlic; stir 1 minute. Stir in squash and next 4 ingredients. Add 3 3/4 cups water and salt. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until water is absorbed and rice is tender, about 45 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in cranberries. Cover; let stand until cranberries soften, about 10 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer to bowl. (Can be made 2 hours ahead. Let stand uncovered at room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap; rewarm in microwave.)

WILD RICE AND SQUASH PILAF

Wild Rice and Squash Pilaf image

This pilaf is fantastic with fish or poultry and especially compatible with turkey. Since it's so colorful, I like to think it makes my turkey dressed for the holidays. -Erica Ollmann, San Diego, California

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Side Dishes

Time 35m

Yield 10 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
1-1/2 cups finely chopped peeled winter squash
2 medium onions, finely chopped
1 small green pepper, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups cooked wild rice
1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried savory
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Steps:

In a large saucepan, saute the mushrooms, squash, onions and green pepper in oil until crisp-tender. Add garlic; saute 1 minute longer., Stir in the rice, broth, soy sauce and savory. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 13-15 minutes or until squash is tender. Stir in almonds.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 118 calories, Fat 4g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 114mg sodium, Carbohydrate 18g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

Tips:

Use a variety of wild rice. There are many different types of wild rice available, each with its own unique flavor and texture. For this recipe, we recommend using a blend of black, red, and white wild rice.
Rinse the wild rice before cooking. This will help to remove any dirt or debris from the rice.
Use a flavorful broth. The broth you use will add a lot of flavor to the pilaf, so be sure to choose one that you like. We recommend using a vegetable broth or chicken broth.
Roast the squash before adding it to the pilaf. Roasting the squash will bring out its natural sweetness and flavor.
Add nuts or dried fruit to the pilaf for extra flavor and texture. We recommend adding chopped walnuts or cranberries.

Conclusion:

Wild rice and squash pilaf is a delicious and healthy side dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. So next time you are looking for a new side dish, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!