Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

If you’re looking for a cozy, flavor-packed dish to impress your friends and family, you’ve come to the right place! This Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing is one of my all-time favorites. Not only is it bursting with fresh herbs, apples, and cranberries, but it’s also completely vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. Whether you’re sharing it at a big family gathering or enjoying a quiet weeknight dinner, this stuffing is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.

What makes this recipe truly special is its delightful mix of textures and flavors. The nuttiness of quinoa pairs perfectly with the earthy wild rice blend and the sweetness from the apples and cranberries. Plus, it’s hearty enough to stand alone as a meal. Trust me, even those who usually reach for turkey will be going back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: Each bite is filled with savory herbs and sweet fruits that create a delicious balance.
• Healthy & Wholesome: With ingredients like quinoa and wild rice, this stuffing is full of nutrients and protein.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy—perfect for busy days!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love the sweet notes from apples and cranberries; it’s an easy way to get them excited about veggies.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or as a main dish on its own for those seeking lighter meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! You’ll find that they are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing:

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

For the Grains

• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 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 Sweetness and Crunch

• 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries
• 1 cup raw pecans (chopped)

For Freshness

• 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 things about this stuffing is how flexible it can be! Feel free to let your creativity shine with these variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Change Up the Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different crunch!
• Try Different Fruits: Substitute dried cherries or apricots instead of cranberries for a unique twist.
• Mix in Some Cheese: For those who enjoy dairy, add crumbled feta or goat cheese before baking for a creamy texture.

How to Make Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

Step 1: Sauté Your Base

Place a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil. When it’s hot, toss in the onions and celery. Cook them while stirring occasionally until they’re soft—this should take about 5 minutes. Next, add in the diced apples, garlic, thyme, and salt. Cooking these ingredients together brings out their wonderful flavors!

Step 2: Cook the Rice Blend

Now stir in your grape juice followed by vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil! Once boiling, add in your wild rice blend. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover. Let it simmer until the rice is tender—this will take approximately 35 minutes.

Step 3: Add Quinoa & Other Goodies

After your rice has cooked down nicely, stir in the rinsed quinoa. Cover again and cook until it’s tender too—about another 15 minutes will do! Finally, fold in your dried cranberries, chopped pecans, parsley, and sage. Give it all a good taste test; add salt if needed before removing from heat.

Step 4: Bake It Up!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit while you prepare your casserole dish with a bit of olive oil rub. Lightly scoop your delicious mixture into the dish without mashing it down too much; we want that lovely texture! Bake until golden brown—this usually takes around 25-30 minutes.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, drizzle on just a touch more olive oil and sprinkle with remaining parsley before serving up this fabulous Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

Creating the perfect Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing is all about attention to detail and personal touches. Here are some pro tips to help you make this dish a standout at your table!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and sage bring vibrancy and depth to your stuffing, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Dried herbs can be convenient, but fresh offers a brightness that truly elevates the dish.

• Don’t skip rinsing quinoa: Rinsing quinoa removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. This simple step ensures your stuffing has a clean, nutty flavor.

• Adjust sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of dried cranberries or even add a touch of maple syrup for extra sweetness. Balancing sweet and savory flavors makes each bite delightful.

• Test for doneness: Every brand of wild rice can have different cooking times. Make sure to taste the rice before removing it from heat; it should be tender but still have a slight chew.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together beautifully. Plus, it makes serving easier!

How to Serve Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing

Presenting your Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing with thoughtfulness can turn this comforting dish into a true centerpiece. Here are some ways to showcase it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the freshness of the dish.
• Sliced Apples: Thin slices of apple on top provide an appealing contrast in texture and complement the sweetness of the cranberries.
• Toasted Pecans: A few extra chopped toasted pecans sprinkled over not only boosts crunchiness but also highlights the nutty flavors in the stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized veggies have a wonderful earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the stuffing’s sweetness.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy and low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, this dish offers a silky texture that complements the hearty stuffing.
• Maple-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of roasted carrots drizzled with maple syrup complements the stuffing’s flavors while adding vibrant color to your plate.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides balance and helps cut through the richness of the stuffing.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing will not just be delicious but also visually stunning! Enjoy making this heartwarming dish that everyone will love!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Whether you’re preparing for a busy week or planning a special occasion, these storage tips will ensure your dish stays delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the stuffing completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making and enjoying this stuffing.

Can I use other grains in Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing?

Absolutely! While wild rice and quinoa provide great texture and flavor, feel free to experiment with other grains like farro or bulgur for unique twists.

How can I make Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free! By using gluten-free grains like wild rice and quinoa, you can enjoy this stuffing without worry.

Can I prepare Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing a day ahead?

Yes! Preparing this stuffing a day in advance allows the flavors to deepen. Just follow the storage instructions above after cooking.

What vegetables can I add to Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing?

Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Herbed Wild Rice Quinoa Stuffing as much as I do! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that everyone will love. With its delightful combination of herbs, fruits, and nuts, this stuffing offers warmth and comfort perfect for any gathering. Give it a try, savor every bite, and let me know how it turns out!