Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall, then you’ll adore these Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette! This recipe is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that celebrate the season. The combination of roasted butternut squash, crunchy apples, and nutty rice makes this bowl feel like a warm hug on a chilly day.

These bowls are incredibly versatile and can be served at family gatherings, cozy weeknight dinners, or even as a delightful meal prep option for busy days. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Packed with flavors and textures everyone will enjoy, from kids to adults!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Celebrate fall with fresh produce that’s both tasty and healthy.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this beautiful dish! Each component adds its own unique flavor and texture to the bowl, making it satisfying and nutritious.

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! Feel free to make it your own by trying out some of these variations:

• Swap the cheese: Use feta or goat cheese instead of white cheddar for a tangy twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in other seasonal vegetables like roasted carrots or sweet potatoes for added nutrition.
• Change the nuts: If you’re allergic to almonds, try walnuts or sunflower seeds instead.
• Make it vegan: Omit the cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative for a delicious vegan option.

How to Make Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice

Start by adding your Wild Blend Rice along with gluten-free chicken broth to a small saucepan. Bringing it to a simmer is key; then cover it with a lid and reduce the heat. Letting it simmer gently allows the rice to absorb all that flavorful broth. Once tender—about 40-50 minutes—you’ll fluff it up with a fork and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s heating up, line a half sheet pan with parchment paper or nonstick foil. Toss your butternut squash cubes in olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness! Bake them for about 15-20 minutes until they’re tender and perfectly caramelized.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

On another half sheet pan lined similarly, spread out your shredded brussels sprouts. Add in the remaining olive oil along with salt and pepper. These little gems turn crispy and golden brown when roasted; just give them about 8-10 minutes in the oven after starting your squash.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine your fluffy rice, roasted butternut squash, crispy brussels sprouts, chopped apples, cheese cubes, almonds or pepitas, and dried cranberries. Drizzle your homemade Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette generously over everything before giving it all a good toss. This step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

Now you’re ready to serve up these gorgeous Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Creating these bowls is a delightful experience, and with a few insider tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce not only enhances flavor but also adds vibrant color and nutrition to your bowls. Opt for seasonal fruits and vegetables when possible.

• Experiment with spices: While the recipe calls for garlic powder, chili powder, and cinnamon, feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs. This personal touch can make the dish uniquely yours!

• Adjust sweetness: The sweetness of the fig balsamic vinaigrette can be tailored to your preference. If you like it sweeter, add an extra tablespoon of fig jam; for a tangier taste, increase the balsamic vinegar slightly.

• Customize textures: Mix up the nuts and cheese based on what you have at home or prefer. Try walnuts instead of almonds or swap out white cheddar for feta cheese—textural variety makes each bite exciting!

• Make-ahead magic: Prepare components in advance! Cook the rice and roast the veggies a day ahead. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything with the dressing for a quick meal.

How to Serve Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Presenting your Wild Rice Harvest Bowls beautifully can be as enjoyable as making them! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top for a fresh pop of flavor and color.
• Crumbled feta: Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for an extra creamy element that contrasts nicely with the crunch of the nuts.
• Pomegranate seeds: These jewel-like seeds provide a burst of tartness and a beautiful visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetable medley: A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and cauliflower drizzled with olive oil and herbs pairs perfectly with the harvest theme.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the bowls while adding extra protein.
• Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread serves as a comforting side that balances out the freshness of your harvest bowl.
• Simple green salad: A crisp green salad dressed lightly in olive oil and lemon juice refreshes your palate between bites of hearty rice bowls.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance your dining experience but also impress anyone who shares this delicious meal with you! Enjoy crafting these delightful Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette!

Make Ahead and Storage

Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are perfect for meal prep! They store well, making them an excellent choice for busy weekdays or when you want to enjoy healthy meals without the fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the harvest bowls to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the bowls to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Let the bowls cool down entirely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel.
• Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed evenly.

FAQs

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

Can I make Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all the components of these bowls ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal throughout the week. Just store them separately as noted above.

What can I substitute if I can’t find wild blend rice?

If you can’t find wild blend rice, you can use brown rice or quinoa as alternatives. Both options will provide a nice texture and flavor balance for your harvest bowls.

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

To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply replace white cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it altogether. The bowls will still be delicious and hearty!

Can I add more vegetables to these harvest bowls?

Definitely! Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you love, such as roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or kale. This recipe is very versatile!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette! They’re not only beautiful but also packed with flavors that celebrate the season. Enjoy making this dish for yourself or share it with friends and family; either way, it’s sure to be a hit! Happy cooking!