Advertisement
The first bite of this vibrant Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad instantly transports me to a sun-drenched picnic, where the sweet aroma of tangerines mingles with the earthy nuttiness of wild rice. This delightful dish combines chewy grains with juicy citrus segments, creating a refreshing balance that elevates any meal. Not only is it a perfect companion for grilled meats, but it also stands proudly as a standalone vegetarian option. Why settle for fast food when you can whip up this wholesome, gluten-free salad in a flash? Packed with fiber and bursting with flavor, it’s a nourishing choice that satisfies both body and soul. Curious about how to bring this colorful medley to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Salad
Vibrant Flavors: The combination of wild rice and farro packs a delightful nuttiness, perfectly balanced by the zesty sweetness of tangerines that wakes up your taste buds.
Nutrient-Dense Goodness: This salad is not just delicious; it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. A nourishing option for health-conscious diners or those looking to elevate their diet.
Advertisement
Versatile Delight: Whether served as a standalone vegetarian dish or a vibrant side with grilled meats, this salad accommodates many meal styles, making it perfect for any occasion.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is a breeze compared to drive-thru stops! Try it along with other easy options like Cream Cheese Chicken or the Egg Hashbrown Casserole for more quick fixes!
Colorful Presentation: This salad looks stunning on any table, turning mealtime into a joyfully visual experience. You won’t just be eating; you’ll be savoring every bite of this edible work of art!
Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad Ingredients
For the Grains
• Wild Rice – A nutty flavor and chewy texture that elevates this dish; cook it a day in advance for best results.
• Farro – Provides a hearty contrast to the wild rice; pre-cooking and chilling it makes preparation super easy.
For the Citrus
• Tangerines – Their sweetness and acidity brighten the salad; feel free to swap in oranges if desired.
For the Dressing
• Olive Oil – Serves as the rich base for this salad’s dressing; consider using avocado oil for a lighter touch.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors; sea salt is a lovely option that complements the dish well.
• Pepper – Adds a mild heat that rounds out the flavor; fresh-ground pepper is ideal for the best taste.
Embrace these beautiful ingredients to create a stunning Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad
Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil, then add 1 cup of wild rice. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, until the rice opens up and is tender but still chewy. Once cooked, drain any excess water and spread the wild rice out on a baking sheet to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Farro
In a separate pot, bring another batch of salted water to a boil and add 1 cup of farro. Cook for 25-30 minutes, until the grains are tender yet firm to the bite. Drain the farro and also spread it on a different baking sheet to cool down, ensuring both grains reach room temperature before combining.
Step 3: Combine Grains
When both the wild rice and farro have cooled, transfer them into a large mixing bowl. Use a spatula to gently combine the two, allowing their nutty flavors to meld together. This hearty base of grains creates the foundation of your Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad, adding texture and depth.
Step 4: Add the Tangerines
Next, peel and segment 2-3 tangerines, making sure to remove any seeds. Gently fold the citrus segments into the bowl with the grains, letting their sweet and tangy notes infuse the salad. This step brings brightness and a refreshing burst of flavor, enhancing the overall salad experience.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
Drizzle about 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over the grains and tangerines in the bowl. Season with a few pinches of salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. The oil will coat the salad and elevate the flavors, creating a delightful dressing for the Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad.
Step 6: Toss and Taste
Use a large spoon or spatula to gently toss everything together, ensuring the grains and tangerines are well mixed. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding a touch more salt or pepper to harmonize with the tartness of the tangerines.
Step 7: Serve or Chill
You can serve the salad immediately, or let it sit for 15-30 minutes at room temperature for the flavors to meld. Alternatively, refrigerate it for an hour for a refreshing chilled option, making your Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad the perfect complement to any meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time on busy weeknights! You can cook the wild rice and farro up to 24 hours in advance. After cooking, be sure to let them cool completely before refrigerating them in separate airtight containers to maintain their texture and prevent sogginess. You can also peel and segment the tangerines up to 3 days ahead of time; store them in the fridge to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the grains and tangerines, drizzle with olive oil, toss gently, and adjust the seasoning as needed for a delicious salad that’s just as vibrant and flavorful as when first made!
Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!
-
Quinoa Swap: Substitute quinoa for farro for a lighter, gluten-free salad that still offers a wonderful texture. Quinoa cooks quickly and gives a delightful fluffiness to the dish.
-
Add Crunch: Toss in some slivered almonds or toasted walnuts for an extra crunch. The nuts not only add texture but also contribute healthy fats to complement the grains.
-
Cheesy Goodness: Crumble feta cheese on top to introduce a creamy contrast to the salad. The tanginess of feta pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the tangerines.
-
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in some fresh herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing lift. The aromatic flavors of herbs bring a whole new dimension to this already vibrant dish.
-
Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. The heat will create an intriguing balance with the citrus sweetness.
-
Berry Delight: Add in some fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries for a sweet and tart burst that enhances the salad’s overall flavor profile. This twist not only tastes great but adds visual appeal!
-
Zesty Citrus Mix: Combine tangerines with grapefruit segments for a more complex citrus flavor. The bitterness of grapefruit adds a sophisticated note to the sweetness of the tangerines.
-
Dress it Up: Experiment with different dressings, such as a citrus vinaigrette. A bright dressing will accentuate the flavors of the salad and infuse each bite with zesty goodness.
Feel inspired? Whip up this salad for a nourishing and delightful meal. Looking for more quick and delightful recipes? Check out my Orange Chicken Panda and Cream Cheese Chicken to keep your dinner table exciting!
Expert Tips for Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad
-
Cool Completely: Ensure both wild rice and farro are completely cooled before adding tangerines to avoid wilting the citrus segments.
-
Taste Test: Always taste the salad after mixing in olive oil and seasoning; this allows you to adjust for the natural sweetness of the tangerines.
-
Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest tangerines available; their vibrant flavor elevates the Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad significantly.
-
Prep Ahead: Cook grains a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. This saves time and enhances flavor when you’re ready to serve.
-
Extra Crunch: For added texture, toss in some nuts like slivered almonds or pumpkin seeds just before serving—this adds delightful crunch.
What to Serve with Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this vibrant dish with delightful accompaniments that enhance its fresh flavors.
-
Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky grilled chicken complements the salad’s refreshing citrus and hearty grains, creating a balanced meal.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of caramelized, seasonal vegetables offers a sweet contrast and further elevates the antioxidants and fiber on your plate.
-
Quinoa Patties: These crispy, protein-packed delights add a savory crunch that harmonizes beautifully with the zesty salad and supports your health goals.
-
Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado toast topped with a sprinkle of sea salt provides a smooth texture that complements the chewy grains while satisfying any craving.
-
Lemon Herb Dressing: Drizzling a zesty lemon herb dressing over your salad adds an extra layer of freshness and brightness, enhancing the overall flavor.
-
Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Prosecco pairs wonderfully with this salad, accentuating its bright citrus notes while pleasing your palate.
-
Dark Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finish, a rich dark chocolate mousse contrasts nicely with the salad’s bright flavors, making it an indulgent yet elegant dessert option.
Storage Tips for Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad
Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad for up to a month; however, the tangerine segments may lose their texture.
Reheating: If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow the salad to come to room temperature or serve it chilled straight from the fridge. Avoid heating to preserve the tangerine’s juiciness.
Dressing: Keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess in the grains and tangerines.
Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe tangerines for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for tangerines that are firm and heavy for their size, with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel soft; these may be overripe or damaged. Ripe tangerines should have a sweet, fragrant aroma as well.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store your Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it, as this keeps the grains from becoming soggy and keeps your salad fresh and vibrant.
Can I freeze this salad?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze components of the salad separately. For freezing, let the grains cool entirely, then portion the cooled wild rice and farro into freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Note that tangerines don’t freeze well and may lose their texture, so add them fresh after thawing.
What if my wild rice and farro are too soft?
Very! If your grains turn out too soft, it often means they were overcooked. To remedy this, make sure to follow the cooking times on the package closely. For future batches, consider checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than recommended. If you find the texture unappealing, use it as a base for soups or casseroles instead!
Are there any dietary considerations or allergens I should be aware of?
Yes! Both wild rice and farro are generally safe for gluten-free diets, but make sure the farro is labeled gluten-free, as it is typically made from wheat. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, always review ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination. The salad is vegetarian and can be modified for vegan diets easily by substituting the olive oil for avocado oil.
How can I add more protein to this salad?
You can gently fold in some cooked chickpeas or lentils to boost the protein content. They pair beautifully with the wild rice and farro, while keeping the salad hearty and satisfying! If you want to keep it vegetarian, I often recommend adding some crumbled feta cheese for creaminess and flavor.
Zesty Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad for Refreshing Crunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil, then add 1 cup of wild rice. Reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes until tender. Drain excess water and spread wild rice on a baking sheet to cool.
- In a separate pot, bring another batch of salted water to a boil and add 1 cup of farro. Cook for 25-30 minutes until tender but firm. Drain and spread in a different baking sheet to cool.
- Once cooled, combine wild rice and farro in a large mixing bowl, gently melding their flavors together.
- Peel and segment 2-3 tangerines and fold into the grains, adding brightness and flavor.
- Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, season with salt and fresh-ground pepper, and mix thoroughly.
- Gently toss to mix, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately or let sit for 15-30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for an hour for a chilled option.
