Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

If you’re looking for a stuffing that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! This Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing is not just another side dish; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients and comforting tastes. I love how this recipe brings together fresh herbs, sweet apples, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans. It’s a dish that everyone can enjoy, whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. Plus, it’s vegetarian, vegan, AND gluten-free—so all your loved ones can dig in without a worry!

This stuffing is special to me because it showcases the beauty of plant-based cooking while being hearty enough to stand on its own. The addition of protein-rich quinoa makes it satisfying and nutritious. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors that appeal to all ages, this stuffing will quickly become a favorite at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve! Perfect for busy weeknights or holiday feasts.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of herbs, fruits, and nuts creates a delightful medley that’s sure to impress your guests.
• Nutritious & Wholesome: With quinoa and wild rice as the base, this dish is rich in protein and fiber, making it both filling and healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here are the simple and wholesome ingredients you’ll need to create your Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing. Each one adds its unique touch to the overall flavor profile!

For the Stuffing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for greasing the baking dish and drizzling)
• 1 large yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 2 stalks celery (chopped [about 1/2 cup])
• 2 medium Granny Smith apples (peeled and diced)
• 2 medium cloves garlic (peeled and finely minced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 cup dry-ish white grape juice
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 cups uncooked wild rice blend
• 1 cup uncooked quinoa (rinsed well)
• 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries
• 1 cup raw pecans (chopped)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley, plus 1/4 cup more for topping after baking
• 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves (minced)

Variations

One of the great things about this Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing is how flexible it is! Feel free to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition!
• Switch Up the Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try walnuts or slivered almonds instead.
• Try Different Fruits: Diced pears or raisins can add a different sweetness that complements the other flavors beautifully.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or dill if thyme isn’t your favorite.

How to Make Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Place a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, toss in the onions and celery. Cook them until soft—this should take about 5 minutes. The gentle sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, setting a lovely base for your stuffing. Next, mix in those diced apples along with minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and salt. Stir frequently for another minute to let those flavors mingle together.

Step 2: Add Liquid Ingredients

Now it’s time for some moisture! Stir in your dry-ish white grape juice followed by the vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil before adding in the wild rice blend. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover it up—let it simmer until tender for about 35 minutes. This step is crucial; cooking the rice properly ensures it’s fluffy rather than mushy.

Step 3: Incorporate Quinoa

Once your wild rice is tender, stir in rinsed quinoa and cover again. Cook until the quinoa is also tender—this should take an additional 15 minutes. Don’t forget to stir in cranberries, chopped pecans, half of your parsley, and minced sage once cooked! Give everything a taste here; feel free to add more salt if needed.

Step 4: Bake Your Stuffing

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit while you prepare your casserole dish by rubbing it lightly with olive oil. Scoop your hearty rice mixture into this dish—don’t pack it down too tightly; light mounds work best! Finally, pop it into the oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 5: Final Touches

As soon as it’s out of the oven, drizzle with just a little more olive oil and sprinkle remaining parsley on top for freshness. Serve warm alongside any meal—you’ll find that everyone will be asking for seconds!

Enjoy every bite of this delicious Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing—it’s bound to become a cherished part of your kitchen repertoire!

Pro Tips for Making Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

Creating a delightful stuffing is all about the details, and these tips will help you elevate your Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing to the next level!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and sage bring vibrant flavors that dried herbs can’t match, making your stuffing aromatic and delicious.

• Don’t rush the cooking: Allowing the wild rice blend to simmer fully ensures it becomes tender and fluffy. This enhances the overall texture of your stuffing.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to toss in seasonal vegetables or swap pecans for walnuts if you prefer. Customizing your stuffing can create unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the stuffing to sit for a few minutes after baking helps set its shape and makes it easier to serve, while also enhancing the flavors.

• Make ahead for convenience: Prepare this stuffing a day in advance and refrigerate. Reheating allows the flavors to meld even more, saving you time on busy days.

How to Serve Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

Presenting your Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing beautifully can make any meal feel special! Here are some ideas on how to serve this wholesome dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkling extra parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Toasted nuts: A handful of toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled over the top provides added crunch and richness that complements the stuffing beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes, offers a colorful plate while adding sweetness and earthiness that pairs well with the stuffing.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy homemade cranberry sauce brings an extra burst of flavor that contrasts delightfully with the savory stuffing.
• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal and balances out the richness of the stuffing.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort food vibes that complement the hearty texture of your Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing perfectly.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delicious dish at your next gathering or cozy dinner! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it, making your dinner planning a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume leftovers within 3-5 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Let the stuffing cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, drizzling with a little olive oil to keep it moist.
• Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing.

Can I make Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare this stuffing a day or two ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and then bake it just before serving.

What variations can I make to Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing?

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or swapping out the nuts for walnuts or almonds to suit your taste!

Is Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing gluten-free?

Yes! This stuffing is naturally gluten-free due to the use of wild rice and quinoa. It’s a delightful option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that everyone will adore. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations you tried—I would love to hear from you!

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