Makes: 12 Servings

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Preparation Time: 25 minutes

This tasty wild rice dish starts with sautéed celery and onions mixed with sweet apples and cranberries. This combination, topped with toasted pecans, sage and a hint of heat makes a flavorful addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 ounces chopped pecans (unsalted)
• 4 teaspoons canola oil (divided)
• 1 1/2 cups diced celery
• 1 1/2 cups diced onions
• 1 medium red apple, such as Jonathan or Gala (halved, cored, and diced, about 1 1/2 cup total)
• 2 cups hot cooked brown rice
• 1 cup hot cooked wild rice
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1 medium jalapeno pepper (seeded (if desired) and finely chopped OR 1/4 tsp dried pepper flakes)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage (or 1 1/2 tsp dried rubbed sage)
• 3/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pecans and cook 2-3 minutes or until beginning to brown, stirring frequently. Set aside on separate plate.
2. Heat 1 teaspoon of the oil over medium heat. Cook the celery and onion 8 minutes or until beginning to lightly brown on edge, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the apples and cook 4 minutes or until tender crisp.
4. Stir in the pecans and the remaining ingredients and cook 3-4 minutes or until the rice mixture is heated, stirring occasionally.

Notes

• Chef's Notes: Use any of your favorite nuts in place of pecans. Or, leave them out if someone is allergic.
• Materials: You will need a large skillet, measuring cups, measuring spoons, mixing spoon, and a sharp knife.

Source: Meeting Your MyPlate Goals on a Budget, MyPlate National Strategic Partners Toolkit