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Sarasota's Chicken and Wild Rice Salad

Here's how you make Sarasota's Chicken and Wild Rice Salad
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  • Servings: 5
  • Prep: 5m
  • Cook: 40-45m
    • The following recipe serves 5 people.

Ingredients

The ingredients are:
  • 2 cups chicken, cooked (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup wild rice (uncooked, the real stuff)
  • 1 cup baby arugula (watercress is a good substitute for arugula)
  • 1/2 cup scallions, diced (white and green parts)
  • 1/2 cup celery (thin diced on an angle)
  • 1/2 cup almonds (toasted)
  • Chicken broth (to cook the rice-optional, but worth it)
  • TARRAGON VINAIGRETTE
  • 1/2 cup oil (olive oil)
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced (or 1 small garlic clove)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
We recommend you get your ingredients ready before you start cooking. Once you're ready, here are the steps to making this delicious recipe

How to Make

  • Step 1: Dressing ... Add all the ingredients to a small bowl or measuring cup, and mix to combine - set to the side.

  • Step 2: Almonds ... I like to toast the almonds. This isn't necessary; but, I think it adds a lot to the dish. Add the almonds to a dry saute pan on medium heat. Saute, just a few minutes until you begin to smell them, stirring often. Then, they are done. They can also be toasted in the oven if you want, but they take a lot longer. Again, this is optional. I have made it both ways, but it is worth toasting them.

  • Step 3: Wild Rice ... Cook the rice according to package directions. You can cook the rice in water, or chicken broth if you want. The broth adds a bit of extra flavor. Once the rice is done, transfer to a large serving bowl, to cool.

  • Step 4: Salad ... Add the scallions, celery, chicken, and arugula or watercress to the 'cooled' rice, and toss to combine. Then, add most of the dressing, and mix to incorporate all the ingredients. But, save a little of the dressing to add to the salad right before serving. Cover with plastic wrap; and, refrigerate at least 30 minutes until ready to serve.

  • Step 5: Serve and ENJOY! ... Add the almonds, the remaining dressing; and toss to combine. ENJOY! Serve with fresh fruit; I love a citrus salad with this dish. A tomato salad would also be a nice side. It is a great weeknight dinner.

We hope you enjoy this recipe!

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