Discover the perfect wild rice salads! From nutty and hearty to fresh and zesty, explore creative ways to elevate your salads with bold flavors, seasonal ingredients, and vibrant dressings. Healthy, delicious, and easy to make!

When it comes to versatile grains, California Wild Rice is a standout. This unique grain is not a true rice but the seed of aquatic grass, native to North America. Grown in California’s pristine waterways, wild rice has a nutty, earthy flavor and a delightful chewy texture that pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, and proteins. Its deep, dark hue adds visual appeal to any dish, making it a favorite ingredient in salads that shine on your table.

Wild rice is also packed with health benefits. It’s rich in protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus. Naturally gluten-free, it supports heart health and aids in maintaining steady blood sugar levels. Its nutrient density makes wild rice a perfect choice for balanced, satisfying meals.

To inspire you, we’ve curated a selection of wild rice salads that highlight the versatility and flavor of California Wild Rice.

Olive-Studded Wild Rice Salad

The salads in this recipe collection from California Grown, incorporate briny olives with wild rice for a Mediterranean-inspired twist. Paired with seasonal vegetables and vibrant vinaigrettes, these dishes celebrate the rich, earthy flavors of wild rice and California’s agricultural bounty. 

Get the recipe here.

Wild Rice Salad with Blueberries

From the California Blueberry Commission, this salad brings a sweet-tart flavor with the addition of fresh blueberries. Paired with the nutty taste of wild rice, it’s a vibrant and antioxidant-rich option for summer meals. 

Get the recipe here.

Pomegranate, Persimmon, and Pistachio Wild Rice Salad

This colorful dish from Salt & Wind combines jewel-like pomegranate seeds, sweet persimmons, and crunchy pistachios with wild rice. A tangy vinaigrette ties it all together for a salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. 

Try it here.

Wild Rice Salad with Baby Greens, Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Pistachios

Also from Salt & Wind, this salad mixes wild rice with fresh greens, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and nutty pistachios. It’s a hearty yet fresh dish that can double as a light main course or a side. 

Find the recipe here.

Kate’s Wild Rice Salad

Over at Kate’s Best Recipes, this salad combines wild rice with vibrant vegetables, dried fruits, and a zesty citrus dressing. It’s a flexible recipe that allows you to swap in seasonal ingredients for year-round enjoyment. 

Check it out here.

Citrus and Walnut Salad

This salad from This Mess Is Ours pairs the bold flavors of oranges and grapefruit with the nuttiness of wild rice. The addition of herbs and a bright dressing makes it a refreshing, citrusy option for sunny days. 

See the recipe here.

Black and Wild Rice Salad with Roasted Squash

Featured by Bon Appétit, this warm, hearty salad mixes black and wild rice with caramelized roasted squash and a hint of sweetness from cranberries. It’s a perfect fall or winter dish. 

Try it here.

Kale Salad with Raisins and Walnuts

From the LA Times, this salad combines the hearty texture of wild rice with tender kale, sweet raisins, and crunchy walnuts. A lemony dressing brings it all together, making it a nutritious and flavorful choice. 

Get the recipe here.

Wild Rice Salad with Celery and Walnuts

A New York Times favorite, this salad highlights the crunch of celery and walnuts alongside the nutty chew of wild rice. Tossed with a simple vinaigrette, it’s a classic option that’s quick to prepare. 

Find it here.

Skillet Wild Rice, Walnut, and Broccoli Salad

This warm salad, also from The New York Times, combines tender broccoli with wild rice and walnuts for a comforting, savory dish. Cooked in a skillet, it’s a quick option that brings bold flavors and textures together.

 Explore the recipe here.

California Wild Rice is more than just an ingredient—it’s a canvas for creativity. From vibrant citrus pairings to hearty roasted vegetables, these wild rice salads demonstrate the incredible versatility of this nutritious grain. Whether you’re planning a light lunch, a festive dinner, or meal-prepping for the week, these recipes will make wild rice a new staple in your kitchen.

This article was written by Alison Needham, and images used with permission from the above California Grown Creators.