Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a cozy and nutritious meal that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve come to the right place! These Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are not only visually stunning but also packed with wholesome ingredients. This dish has become a cherished recipe in my home because it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful experience for everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare while still feeling special. You can whip it up in under 75 minutes, making it an excellent choice for those evenings when you want something healthy but don’t have all day to cook. Plus, the Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette adds a touch of sweetness that ties everything together beautifully!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll find this dish comes together quickly.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the colorful veggies and sweet bites of apple!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just assemble the bowls ahead of time and dress them before serving.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted butternut squash, brussels sprouts, and fig vinaigrette creates a symphony of taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! For these Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette, you’ll want simple, wholesome components that bring out the best flavors of fall. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 1 cup Wild Blend Rice (Lundberg Wild Blend Rice recommended)
• 1-3/4 cups gluten free chicken broth

For the Roasted Vegetables

• 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

For Toppings

• 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

One of the best things about these Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette is their flexibility! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Change up the greens: Use kale or spinach instead of brussels sprouts for a different flavor profile.
• Try different nuts: Swap sliced almonds for walnuts or pecans if you prefer.
• Experiment with cheese: Replace white cheddar with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.

How to Make Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice

Start by adding your Wild Blend Rice and gluten-free chicken broth to a small saucepan. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 40-50 minutes until tender. Fluffing it with a fork afterward keeps it light and airy—perfectly ready to soak up all those delicious flavors!

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash

While your rice cooks, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a half-sheet pan with parchment paper or nonstick foil. Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1-1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper on that pan. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness—cook for about 15-20 minutes until tender, stirring halfway through.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

On another lined half-sheet pan, add your shredded brussels sprouts along with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss them gently to coat. Once you’ve added your squash to cook halfway through its roasting time, pop this tray in as well! Roast everything together for about 8-10 minutes until 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 your homemade Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette over the top—this is where all those wonderful flavors meld together! Toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly before serving.

And there you have it—a beautiful bowl full of goodness! Enjoy your Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette as a comforting dinner that celebrates all things fall!

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

Creating these beautiful and nourishing bowls is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll be set up for success!

• Use fresh ingredients: When possible, opt for seasonal produce to enhance the flavors of your dish. Fresh butternut squash and crisp apples can elevate the taste and texture of your harvest bowls.

• Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to customize the spice levels according to your personal preference. Whether you want a bit more heat or sweetness, tweaking the spices will make this dish truly your own.

• Prep ahead: To save time during busy weeknights, roast the butternut squash and brussels sprouts in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge, and you can quickly assemble your bowls when it’s time to eat.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to mix in or substitute other toppings like roasted chickpeas or different nuts. This not only adds variety but also boosts nutrition!

• Make extra vinaigrette: The Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette is versatile! Make a larger batch to drizzle over salads or use it as a marinade for other dishes throughout the week.

How to Serve Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

These Wild Rice Harvest Bowls are as visually appealing as they are delicious! Presenting them beautifully can really elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the earthy flavors of the bowl.
• Crumbled feta cheese: For an additional creamy texture and tangy flavor, crumbled feta can be a delightful addition (if you prefer non-dairy options, consider a plant-based cheese!).
• Pomegranate seeds: These jewel-like seeds not only look stunning but also provide bursts of tartness that balance out the sweetness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetable Medley: A colorful mix of seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers tossed in olive oil and herbs makes for a perfect companion.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well while adding another layer of texture and flavor.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic-infused olive oil provide an irresistible crunch that complements the harvest bowls.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light dressing rounds out the meal beautifully without overwhelming the main dish.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with these Wild Rice Harvest Bowls! Each bite is sure to bring warmth and comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully and making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They should keep well for up to 4 days.
• If separating components, store the dressing separately to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion out the bowls into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave out any cheese or fresh ingredients that may not freeze well.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Reheat the bowls in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stir in a splash of water or broth if they seem dry when reheating.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious bowls, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

Can I use different rice for Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Absolutely! While wild blend rice is recommended for its nutty flavor and texture, you can substitute it with quinoa or brown rice. Just adjust cooking times according to the type of grain used.

What can I substitute for fig jam in the vinaigrette?

If fig jam isn’t available, you can use honey, maple syrup, or even another fruit preserve like apricot or raspberry. Just remember to balance the sweetness with a bit more vinegar if necessary!

How do Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette fit into a healthy diet?

These bowls are packed with whole grains, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats from olive oil and nuts. They are also gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, making them a nutritious choice for almost any dietary need.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Wild Rice Harvest Bowls with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette! They’re not only visually stunning but also wonderfully satisfying. Whether you’re preparing them for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for busy weekdays, they’re sure to bring warmth and flavor to your table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your culinary creations with friends and family!