Description
Wild Rice Spinach Salad with Lemon-Garlic is a fresh, wholesome dish made with nutty wild rice, tender spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a bright lemon-garlic dressing. Perfect as a light lunch, healthy side dish, or meal prep salad, this easy recipe is packed with flavor, texture, and nourishing ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 5 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted nuts or seeds, such as almonds or sunflower seeds
Instructions
- Rinse the wild rice thoroughly under cold water.
- Cook the wild rice according to package instructions until tender but still slightly chewy, about 40 to 45 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Place the spinach in a large serving bowl. Add the sliced red onion and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Add the slightly cooled wild rice to the bowl.
- Sprinkle in the feta cheese, if using, and the toasted nuts or seeds.
- Pour the lemon-garlic dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately, or chill before serving for a colder salad.
Notes
Let the rice cool slightly before tossing with the spinach to prevent wilting.This salad can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature.For extra protein, add grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas.For a vegan version, omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.Dried cranberries or sliced apples make a nice sweet addition.
