Dried Cherry Rice Pilaf

(Made with Michigan dried cherries from Traverse Bay Farms and Traverse Bay Farms Sediment-Free Cherry Juice Concentrate)

Quick Summary

A wholesome, savory dish that blends nutty rice, herbs, and Traverse Bay Farms Dried Tart Cherries for a perfectly balanced flavor. This Dried Cherry Rice Pilaf adds a gourmet touch to everyday meals — rich in antioxidants, quick to prepare, and anything but ordinary.

Published: October 2010 | Updated: November 2025

Chef’s Note (Firsthand Experience)

This dish first came to life during one of our Traverse Bay Farms recipe demo events. We wanted to show that cherries aren’t just for desserts — they can add brightness and depth to savory meals, too. The hint of Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate ties everything together, complementing the herbs and walnuts perfectly. It’s one of those side dishes that always gets a “wow” from guests — especially alongside roasted chicken or grilled salmon.

Prep & Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped onion

• 1 cup chopped celery

• ½ cup Traverse Bay Farms Dried Tart Cherries

• ½ cup chopped walnuts

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh marjoram (or 1 teaspoon dried)

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon margarine or olive oil

• 3 cups cooked rice

• ⅛ teaspoon Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate

Instructions

1. In a large nonstick skillet, melt margarine over medium heat.

2. Add onion, celery, dried cherries, walnuts, thyme, marjoram, pepper, and cherry juice concentrate.

3. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and fragrant.

4. Stir in cooked rice and mix well.

5. Cook an additional 3–4 minutes until thoroughly heated.

6. Serve warm as a side dish or light main course.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Add cooked wild rice or quinoa for extra texture and nutrition.

• Substitute pecans or pistachios for a different nutty flavor.

• For a festive twist, sprinkle pomegranate seeds before serving.

Nutritional Highlights (per serving)

Calories: 189 | Total Fat: 6.4g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 4g | Percent Calories from Fat: 29%

Behind the Recipe

Traverse Bay Farms Dried Tart Cherries bring vibrant color and a subtle tang to traditional dishes like rice pilaf. Combined with Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate, this side offers not only gourmet flavor but also antioxidant-rich nutrition — proving healthy food can still be indulgent.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Can I make this pilaf ahead of time?
Yes — prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and reheat gently before serving.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely — it adds fiber and a deeper, nuttier flavor.

What meats pair best with this recipe?
It’s excellent with poultry, pork, or seafood dishes.

Is this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes — just use olive oil instead of margarine to make it vegan-friendly.

Bring the Taste Home

Enhance your favorite dishes with Michigan dried cherries from Traverse Bay Farms and Traverse Bay Farms Sediment-Free Cherry Juice Concentrate — two of our most versatile ingredients for both sweet and savory creations.