Looking for a wholesome and vibrant meal that bursts with flavor and nutrition? Dive into the delightful world of our Harvest Roasted Vegetable Grain Bowl! This dish isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. With a medley of colorful roasted vegetables, fluffy quinoa, and a sprinkle of feta and walnuts, this bowl is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Ready to impress your taste buds and nourish your body? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups assorted vegetables (e.g., carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help to caramelize the vegetables, enhancing their flavor.
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitterness. This step is crucial for achieving a pleasant taste.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the broth is absorbed. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare your assorted vegetables. Wash and chop them into bite-sized pieces. You can use a mix of carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini for a colorful and nutritious bowl.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated. This will ensure that the vegetables are flavorful and evenly seasoned.
- Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
- Once the quinoa and vegetables are cooked, it's time to assemble your grain bowl. Start by placing a generous scoop of quinoa at the bottom of each serving bowl.
- Top the quinoa with the roasted vegetables, distributing them evenly across the bowls. The vibrant colors of the vegetables will make your dish visually appealing.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts over the top of each bowl for added flavor and crunch. The feta adds a creamy texture, while the walnuts provide a nice nutty taste.
- Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This step not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor.
- Serve the Harvest Roasted Vegetable Grain Bowl warm, and enjoy this nutritious and delicious meal that’s perfect for any time of the year!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This way, you can quickly toss them in olive oil and seasonings right before roasting.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to mix and match your favorite seasonal vegetables. Sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or even broccoli can add unique flavors and textures to your grain bowl.
- Don’t Skip the Rinsing: Rinsing quinoa is essential to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. This simple step ensures your quinoa is light and fluffy.
- Roast for Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to your vegetable mix before roasting. This will elevate the taste and aroma of your dish.
- Serve Warm: This grain bowl is best enjoyed warm. If you have leftovers, reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove to maintain the dish's deliciousness.
- Customize Your Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Avocado slices, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a handful of arugula can take your bowl to the next level.
- Make it a Meal Prep Star: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare multiple servings and store them in airtight containers for a quick and nutritious grab-and-go lunch throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg
