Apple Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf

I've had a package of TJ's Maple Apple Sausage in the freezer for a few months now, and I've been in clean out the fridge/freezer mode, so I had to use it up. I also had some TJ's wild rice blend, and thought an apple pecan wild rice pilaf sounded interesting and would use up both!
This meal was delicious, I think I should have chopped the apples a bit finer and chopped the pecans, and maybe added some dried cranberries for a sweet burst...maybe next time!

Apple Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf

1/2 c. wild rice blend

1 1/4 c. vegetable stock

1 tbsp. EVOO

1 red onion, diced

1 green apple, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 sprigs of thyme leaves, about 1/2 tsp.

salt and pepper

1/4 c. pecans

1 tbsp. butter*

Bring stock to a boil in a small pot, add rice, stir and turn to medium heat.

Cover and cook for 40 minutes, or until rice is cooked.

While rice cooks, heat a pan over medium-low.

Add EVOO, onions, apples and garlic, season with salt and pepper.

Sautee for ten minutes, or until softened, add thyme.

When rice is cooked, add to apple mixture, stir to combine.

Add butter, adjust seasonings and plate.

Serve with asparagus and chicken sausage.

*omit butter for vegan option