Holiday Salad of Grapes and Grains

Holiday Salad of Grapes and Grains

The holidays are somewhat of a challenge for those who must eat 'gluten-free'. Recently I've been searching for recipes that are unique, colorful, delicious, and wheat-free. I found a recipe that seems 'just right' in our local newspaper. Not only does it consist of several types of yummy whole grains, but it includes fresh fruits and veggies, and several savory herbs. I've made a few adaptations and will share it with you here. . .

1/4 cup wild rice
2 cups water, divided
1/4 cup chopped celery
2 Tbsp. chopped onion
2 tsp. vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon dried sage
1/8 - 1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 cup quinoa
1 cup vegetable broth or water
1 cup halved seedless grapes
1/2 cup diced tomato
2 Tbsp. chopped parsley
sprig of fresh sage

Soak wild rice in one cup of water for one hour or more. Drain. In a skillet, saute celery and onion in oil until tender. Season mixture with sage and salt. Add the remaining 1 cup of water and the drained wild rice. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and cover, then simmer for 45 minutes. Rinse (to remove bitterness) and drain the uncooked quinoa. In another saucepan, bring broth to a boil and add quinoa. Return to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed. Toss the wild rice, quinoa, and grapes together. Mound or mold on a platter lined with romaine leaves. Garnish with the tomato, parsley, and additional sage.

Enjoy!
Serves 6