This easy wild rice pilaf is packed with flavorful vegetables and makes a hearty addition to any meal. This vegan side dish recipe is satisfying on its own, but also works beautifully alongside a variety of mains, especially during the cooler months when warm, comforting dishes feel just right.
As the holiday season approaches, I always find myself reaching for simple side dish recipes that still bring plenty of flavor. The kind that can sit next to a hearty chuck roast or a quick chicken dish without feeling too heavy or too plain. It’s that time of year when lighter dishes start to take a back seat.
This wild rice pilaf cooks right on the stovetop and gets its classic flavor from a simple mirepoix. It’s the kind of base that brings everything together in such a comforting way, especially when you want something dependable and homemade without too much effort.
What makes it even better is how easy it is to adapt. You can keep it simple, or switch things up depending on what you have on hand. It’s a flexible side dish that can quietly fit into almost any meal plan.
For a festive Thanksgiving twist, you can add dried cranberries or chopped pecans. Those little extras bring a nice change of pace and make it feel a bit more special while still keeping everything familiar and comforting.
This easy wild rice pilaf is packed with flavorful vegetables and makes a hearty addition to any meal. This vegan side dish recipe is satisfying on its own, but also works beautifully alongside a variety of mains, especially during the cooler months when warm, comforting dishes feel just right.Easy Wild Rice Pilaf
Ingredients
Instructions
Easy Wild Rice Pilaf
This easy wild rice pilaf is packed with flavorful vegetables and makes a hearty addition to any meal. This vegan side dish recipe is satisfying on its own, but also works beautifully alongside a variety of mains, especially during the cooler months when warm, comforting dishes feel just right.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 3/4 cup diced onion
- 1 1/2 cups wild rice blend
- 2 2/3 cup vegetable broth
- 1 – 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the celery, onion, and carrot, and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the rice and stir to coat it in the oil. Cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast and absorb the oil.
- Pour in the broth and stir to combine. Cover the pan and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer for 45–50 minutes, or until tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove the pan from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5–10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
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