Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty stuffing that’s packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing is one of my all-time favorites. Not only is it a delightful blend of textures and tastes, but it’s also vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this dish long after the meal is over. It’s perfect for cozy family gatherings or even just a busy weeknight dinner when you want something comforting and filling.

The combination of fresh herbs, apples, cranberries, and pecans gives this stuffing a unique twist that makes it stand out from traditional recipes. Plus, the protein-rich quinoa adds an extra boost to keep you satisfied. Whether you serve it alongside your holiday feast or as a main dish on its own, this stuffing is sure to bring smiles around the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a scrumptious dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweetness of apples and cranberries combined with savory herbs makes this stuffing a hit with everyone.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat—stress-free cooking!
• Nutrient-Packed Goodness: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s not just delicious; it’s good for you too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome. This recipe features fresh produce along with pantry staples to create a stuffing that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (+ more for greasing the baking dish + more for drizzling over the top)
• 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 + more to taste
• 1/2 cup dry-ish white grape juice
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

For the Grains

• 2 cups uncooked wild rice blend (I prefer a blend of 50% wild rice and 50% brown rice)
• 1 cup uncooked quinoa (rinsed well)

For Extra Flavor

• 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries
• 1 cup raw pecans (chopped)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley + 1/4 cup more for topping after baking
• 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves (minced)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Switch Up the Nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try walnuts or almonds instead.
• Herb Substitution: Don’t have fresh thyme? Use rosemary or oregano for a different herbal note.
• Fruit Fusion: Swap out cranberries for raisins or dried cherries for a sweet twist!

How to Make Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Place a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil. When hot, toss in the onions and celery. Cook them until soft—this should take about 5 minutes. Next, add in those lovely diced apples, minced garlic, fresh thyme, and salt. Cooking these together brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delicious base for your stuffing.

Step 2: Cook the Grains

Once everything smells heavenly, stir in your grape juice followed by the vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a boil before adding in the wild rice blend. Reduce to medium-low heat, cover it up, and let it simmer until tender—about 35 minutes. After that, stir in the rinsed quinoa and cover again until it’s cooked through—another 15 minutes should do it!

Step 3: Mix in Flavorful Additions

Now’s the fun part! Stir in those beautiful dried cranberries, chopped pecans, half of your parsley, and minced sage into the pot. Give everything a good taste test and adjust the salt if needed. Remember—this is where all those flavors come together!

Step 4: Bake It Up!

Preheat your oven to 350°F while you prepare your casserole dish with a little olive oil. Lightly scoop your rice mixture into the dish without mashing it down; we want that lovely fluffiness! Bake until everything is golden brown—around 25-30 minutes should do nicely.

Step 5: Serve with Love

Once baked, drizzle just a bit more olive oil on top and sprinkle with remaining chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy every bite of this comforting Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing!

Pro Tips for Making Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

Creating the perfect stuffing can be a delightful experience; here are some tips to elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and sage add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match. They brighten up the dish and bring out the natural sweetness of the apples.

• Don’t skimp on seasoning: Properly seasoning your stuffing is key to bringing out all the flavors. A little extra salt can make a big difference, so taste as you go to ensure it’s just right.

• Make it ahead of time: Preparing your stuffing a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just cover it tightly with foil before baking, and reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

• Experiment with nuts: While pecans are a great choice, feel free to swap in walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different texture or flavor. Each nut adds its own unique crunch and richness.

• Consider your liquid: The type of broth and juice you choose can significantly impact the flavor profile of your stuffing. Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth and a light grape juice for a balanced taste without overwhelming sweetness.

How to Serve Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

This herbed wild rice quinoa stuffing makes for a stunning centerpiece on any table. Its rich colors and textures invite conversation, and there are plenty of ways to present it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkling additional parsley on top not only adds color but also enhances freshness.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving gives an inviting sheen and an extra layer of flavor.
• Toasted pecans: Adding some toasted pecans on top provides a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and garlic, these Brussels sprouts add a crispy, caramelized touch that pairs perfectly with the earthy flavors of the stuffing.
• Maple-glazed carrots: Sweetened naturally with maple syrup, these tender carrots bring brightness and contrast to the savory dish.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and richness, making them a classic companion to any stuffing.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances out the hearty stuffing while adding crunch.

Now you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this delicious Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time, making your dinner plans easier and more enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the stuffing into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Alternatively, heat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing you might have!

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice in this Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing?

Yes! While the wild rice adds unique flavor and texture, you can substitute with brown rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

How long does this Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing last in the refrigerator?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this stuffing can last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing is perfect for meal prep; you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Can I add other vegetables to this stuffing?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making 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 it as part of a cozy weeknight meal, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe!