Flavorful Wild Rice and Feta Salad

This delectable Wild Rice and Feta Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines nutty wild rice with the tangy taste of feta cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy nuts, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own, delivering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will leave you coming back for more.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
– 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh herbs (parsley and mint work well)
– 1 small cucumber, diced
– 1 small bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook the Wild Rice: Rinse the wild rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let it cool.

2. Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs: While the wild rice is cooking, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and chop the fresh herbs. Set these aside.

3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled wild rice, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, red onion, cucumber, bell pepper, and fresh herbs.

5. Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon vinaigrette dressing over the wild rice mixture. Toss everything together until well coated and evenly distributed.

6. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled, and enjoy this flavorful and refreshing salad!

This Wild Rice and Feta Salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutritional benefits, making it a great option for a healthy meal.