“GRAPE EXPECTATIONS” WILD RICE PILAF

A rice dish might not be your first thought for outdoor entertaining, but this fruity wild rice pilaf actually makes an excellent side dish for an outdoor luncheon. It does not have to be kept warm or cold, and it tastes even better if it’s made the day before serving.

2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth or water

1 cup wild rice

1 teaspoon finely grated orange peel

2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1 cup red grapes, cut into halves

½ cup sliced almonds

¼ cup dried cranberries

¼ cup sliced green onions

1 teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Place the broth in a medium saucepan, and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add the rice, and cook according to package directions. Let the rice cool for 20 minutes. Put the rice in a medium bowl, and stir in the orange peel, orange juice, butter, grapes, almonds, cranberries, green onions, salt, and pepper. Serve at room temperature, or refrigerate the dish until you are ready to serve it.

MAKES 6 SERVINGS.