Are you ready to embark on a journey that’s delicious and nutritious? Today, we are diving into my version of a harvest grain bowl.
Harvest grain bowls are a vibrant medley of wholesome ingredients that both taste delicious and provide a lot of nourishment for your body.
This fantastic harvest grain bowl is filled with quinoa, sweet potatoes, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and onion – a symphony of flavors and textures in every spoonful!
Even if you aren’t the biggest fan of eating healthy, this grain bowl could be a perfect option for you because it is easily customizable.
Why Harvest Grain Bowls?
First things first, we need to talk about why these bowls are an absolute game-changer when it comes to healthy eating.
These bowls are visually stunning, but also incredibly versatile and packed with nutrients. They are the perfect canvas to showcase any array of colorful, nutrient-rich ingredients in one satisfying meal.
Meet Your Superstar Ingredients:
Quinoa: We have to begin with the star of the show – quinoa! This ancient grain is known as a superfood. It is a complete plant-based protein source that offers all nine essential amino acids. It is also gluten-free and packed with fiber, iron, and magnesium, that helps to support overall health.
Sweet Potatoes: Next up, we have sweet potatoes. These vibrant orange ingredients bring a natural sweetness to the bowl while also delivering a dose of Vitamin A and C. Sweet potatoes are also a good source of fiber and potassium.
Broccoli: Say hello to broccoli! This cruciferous veggie boosts Vitamin C, known for its immune-boosting properties. Vitamin K plays a vital role in bone health by aiding in calcium absorption. Additionally, broccoli contains antioxidants that support overall health and reduce inflammation.
Brussels Sprouts: This vegetable is a powerhouse! Rich in fiber, Vitamin K, and folate, these small but mighty vegetables pack a punch. They promote a healthy gut microbiome while also fighting against chronic diseases with their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Onion: Last, but definitely not lease, the humble onions add depth and aroma to the bowl. Onions are low in calories, but high in flavor while also containing antioxidants and nutrients that offer various health benefits.
Creating Your Masterpiece
- Preparation is Key: Start by cooking your quinoa according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, preheat your oven for roasting and start to chop your veggies. Season your veggies with your favorite seasonings, some good examples include:
- garlic
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- paprika
- chili powder
- salt and pepper
- Roasting Magic: Spread your seasoned veggies onto a baking sheet and roast them until they’re tender, but still have a slight crispiness to them.
- Assembly Time: Here is the fun part! Grab your favorite bowl and start assembling your ingredients.
- Get Creative: Don’t be afraid to personalize your bowl! Add a drizzle of your favorite sauce. (I used a balsamic glaze) or top it with your meat of choice (I added some Italian seasoned chicken tenders.
Why We Love Harvest Grain Bowls
- Nutrient-Packed: Each ingredient in this bowl brings a wealth of nutrients, making it a powerhouse meal.
- Versatile: You can mix and match various vegetables, grains, and toppings based on your personal preference or whatever you have in the fridge.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a larger batch early in the week and store the components separately for a quick and easy meal prep throughout the week.
Customize Your Bowl, Your Way
One of the most exciting aspects of crafting a harvest grain bowl is the freedom to tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Grain bowls are like a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!
If you don’t like quinoa, you can swap it out for something like brown rice, farro, or cauliflower rice. If you’re not a fan of sweet potatoes, you can use roasted butternut squash instead.
There is also an endless choice of toppings! You can add avocado, cherry tomatoes, or your favorite sauce or salad dressing.
The beauty of grain bowls lies in their adaptability. You can mix and match ingredients to create a bowl that perfectly suits your cravings and dietary requirements.
I purposefully didn’t include a recipe card because I want you all to unleash your imagination and make a grain bowl that is uniquely yours!
Enjoy!
There you have it – your ticket to a delicous and nutritious harvest grain bowl.
These bowls are not only satisfying and full of flavor, but also a fantastic way to pack in essential nutrients and experiment with different ingredients.
Get creative, have fun, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures in every bite. Share your unique twists on this recipe, or your favorite ingredients to include in a harvest grain bowl – let’s inspire each other!
