Quinoa & Wild Rice Pilaf

While I love both quinoa and wild rice separately, combining them brings out the best qualities in both. Quinoa is light and fluffy with a mild flavor. Wild rice is nutty and hearty with an assertive flavor. When combined, you get a satisfying dish that is perfect for serving with roasted vegetables of any kind. It would also be a lovely side for any roasted fish or meat or even as a vegetarian option on a celebration table. However you choose to serve this simple pilaf, I hope you enjoy it, adapt it to your tastes, and make it often!

Serves 4

Ingredients

1 cup Quinoa, rinsed and drained

1 cup Wild Rice, rinsed and drained

6 cups water or stock

4 TB unsalted butter

1/3 cup sunflower seeds

1 naval orange, zested and segmented

2 TB parsley, roughly chopped

2 scallions, white and light green parts only

2 TB dried cranberries, or fresh pomegranate arils

2 oz/ 1/2 cup slivered almonds, lightly toasted

2 oz/ 1/2 cup crumbled feta or fresh goat cheese

2 TB freshly squeezed lemon juice

4 TB extra virgin olive oil

kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Method

1. Place the wild rice and 4 cups water or stock, plus 2 TB butter, in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer, covered, for about 45 minutes, until the germ has opened and the rice is well cooked but not mushy. Set aside to cool.

2. While the wild rice is cooking, prepare the quinoa. Place the quinoa and 2 cups stock or water, plus 2TB butter, in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook, covered, at a simmer for 10-12 minutes until the germ has opened. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.

3. In a large serving bowl, make the salad dressing. Whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt & pepper to emulsify. Add the cooled grains and toss to coat. Add the sunflower seeds, orange zest and segments, 3/4 of the parsley, scallions, dried cranberries or pomegranate arils, and toasted slivered almonds. Toss gently to combine. Scatter crumbled feta and remaining parsley over the top and serve. Best enjoyed at room temperature or chilled.