Cherry Wild Rice Salad

Indulge in the flavors of Wisconsin’s premier cherry-growing area with this delightful Cherry Wild Rice Salad. Discovered while exploring the picturesque Door County in Wisconsin, YVONNE GORGES from New London couldn’t resist sampling this delectable salad. Upon returning home, she wasted no time in requesting the recipe from the talented lady who prepared it. Combining the nutty goodness of wild rice, the heartiness of long grain rice, and the sweetness of dried cherries, this salad is a delightful way to savor the essence of cherry country.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups fresh snow peas, halved
• 2 cups cooked wild rice
• 1 cup cooked long grain rice
• 1 can (8 ounces) sliced water chestnuts, drained
• 1 cup dried cherries
• ½ cup thinly sliced celery
• ¼ cup chopped green onions

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large bowl, combine fresh snow peas, cooked wild rice, cooked long grain rice, sliced water chestnuts, dried cherries, thinly sliced celery, and chopped green onions.
2. For the dressing, blend sugar, canola oil, cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and fresh gingerroot in a blender until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate until serving.
4. Just before serving, stir in toasted cashew halves to add a delightful crunch.

YIELD:

• Makes 6-8 servings

COOKING TIME:

• Prep/Total Time: 25 minutes

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Ensure the rice is thoroughly cooked and cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients.
• Halve the fresh snow peas to achieve a balanced and enjoyable texture in the salad.

TIPS:

• To enhance the salad’s nutty flavor, toast the cashew halves before adding them to the mixture.
• For a burst of freshness, consider adding a handful of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro.

In conclusion, the Cherry Wild Rice Salad is a delightful tribute to the cherry-growing region of Door County, Wisconsin. Discovered by YVONNE GORGES during her Wisconsin adventure, this salad combines the nutty essence of wild rice and long grain rice with the delightful sweetness of dried cherries. The addition of fresh snow peas, sliced water chestnuts, thinly sliced celery, and chopped green onions creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

The dressing, crafted with precision using sugar, canola oil, cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and fresh gingerroot, perfectly complements the salad’s components. When tossed together, the dressing coats every ingredient, adding a burst of taste that lingers on the palate.

The final touch of toasted cashew halves brings a delightful crunch to the salad, making each bite a delightful journey of taste and texture.

Whether you’re reminiscing about Door County or simply seeking a delicious and wholesome salad option, the Cherry Wild Rice Salad is sure to leave a lasting impression. The beautiful blend of ingredients celebrates the essence of cherry country and the love for fresh produce.

Perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a vibrant potluck contribution, this salad is versatile and easy to prepare. Share the flavors of Wisconsin’s cherry country with family and friends, and watch as they savor every delightful spoonful of this memorable Cherry Wild Rice Salad.

So, take a culinary journey to Wisconsin’s cherry-growing haven and relish the natural beauty of this flavorful salad. With its wonderful blend of tastes and delightful textures, it’s a dish that will transport you to the heart of cherry country with every bite.