Wild Rice Salad with Cherries, Pecans, and Arugula

I’ve always loved recipes that blur the line between hearty and fresh, and this Wild Rice Salad with Cherries, Pecans & Arugula checks all the boxes.

It’s vibrant, full of texture, and perfect for everything from a light lunch to a colorful side dish at dinner.

The chewy wild rice is satisfying and earthy, the sweet cherries pop with flavor, and peppery arugula keeps it all bright and bold.

Add in crunchy pecans and a zippy vinaigrette, and you’ve got a salad you’ll come back to all summer long.

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Recipe Highlights

This salad has the perfect mix of chewy, crisp, sweet, and nutty. It feels gourmet, but it’s made with wholesome ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes if your wild rice is already cooked.

It’s great, warm, room temp, or cold—ideal for meal prep or potlucks. The natural sweetness of fresh cherries pairs beautifully with the earthiness of wild rice and the crunch of toasted pecans.

• Perfect balance of flavor and texture
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• Great for lunch, picnics, or make-ahead meals
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• Gluten-free and easily made dairy-free
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• Naturally sweetened with fresh cherries
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• Colorful and beautiful on the plate

Vibrant Ingredients Come Together

This wild rice salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate. The combination of wild rice, pitted and halved fresh cherries, and arugula creates a colorful medley that is both nutritious and visually appealing.

Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch, while the crumbled feta cheese introduces a creamy texture that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

The salad is further enhanced by the addition of thinly sliced green onions, which provide a fresh, zesty bite.

• Wild Rice: Wild rice has a nutty, chewy texture that’s perfect for salads. Use a wild rice blend or pure wild rice for maximum flavor.
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• Fresh Cherries: Sweet cherries provide bursts of juicy flavor and beautiful color. Pit and halve them for easy eating.
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• Arugula: This leafy green has a slightly peppery taste that cuts through the sweetness and adds freshness.
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• Pecans: Toasted pecans add a rich, buttery crunch and a dose of healthy fats.
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• Green Onion: Mild and bright, green onion adds a subtle onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
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• Feta Cheese (Optional): Crumbled feta gives a salty tang that complements the cherries—optional, but delicious.
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• Simple Vinaigrette: A quick mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup ties it all together.

Simple Yet Flavorful Dressing

The dressing for this salad is a harmonious blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup.

This drizzle not only enhances the flavors of the salad but also adds a glossy finish that makes the dish even more inviting.

Seasoned with salt and pepper, the dressing ties all the elements together, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Preparing the dressing is quick and easy, making it a perfect addition to your meal prep routine.

Preparation Made Easy

Creating this wild rice salad is straightforward and can be accomplished in about 50 minutes, including cooking time.

Begin by cooking the wild rice until tender, allowing it to cool before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Once the rice is ready, combine it with the cherries, arugula, pecans, green onions, and feta cheese in a large bowl.

Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to ensure everything is well-coated.

How to Make My Wild Rice Salad with Cherries, Pecans & Arugula

1. Cook the Wild Rice
   
   Cook wild rice according to package directions, then drain and let cool slightly.
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2. Toast the Pecans
   
   In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pecans for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.
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3. Prep the Produce
   
   Pit and halve the cherries. Slice green onions and chop arugula if needed.
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4. Make the Dressing
   
   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper.
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5. Assemble the Salad
   
   In a large bowl, combine wild rice, cherries, arugula, green onion, pecans, and feta (if using). Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
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6. Serve or Chill
   
   Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill. Garnish with extra cherries or pecans.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This salad is versatile and can be served as a side dish at summer gatherings, picnics, or barbecues.

Its refreshing flavors make it an ideal choice for warm weather, while the hearty wild rice ensures it is filling enough to stand alone as a light meal.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a healthy lunch option, this wild rice salad is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Serving Suggestions

For an added touch, consider garnishing the salad with extra crumbled feta or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own for a nutritious lunch.

Storing leftovers is easy; simply keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.

This wild rice salad pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled chicken or salmon
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• Roasted sweet potatoes or squash
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• A crusty baguette and sparkling water
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• As a vegetarian main for lunch or brunch

A Rustic Presentation

Presenting this salad in a rustic bowl enhances its fresh and healthy appeal. The vibrant colors of the ingredients are beautifully showcased, making it a stunning centerpiece for any table setting.

With its combination of textures and flavors, this wild rice salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings together wholesome ingredients in a delightful way. Enjoy every bite!

Tips for the Best Wild Rice Salad with Cherries, Pecans & Arugula

Cook wild rice ahead of time and let it cool before assembling the salad to avoid wilting the greens.

Use fresh, firm cherries for the best texture and flavor. Toasting the pecans enhances their nutty richness—don’t skip that step!

If making in advance, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to maintain freshness.

Storage and Warming of Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If dressed, the arugula may wilt slightly—if making ahead, store dressing separately and add just before serving.

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no warming is needed.