It was a crisp autumn day when I decided to take a stroll through the local farmer’s market. The vibrant colors of the seasonal vegetables and the aroma of freshly harvested grains filled the air. Inspired by the bounty around me, I came home with a variety of grains and vegetables, eager to create a dish that would celebrate the flavors of the season. The result was this delightful Harvest Grain Bowl, a colorful medley that is as nutritious as it is beautiful.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 cup farro
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, rinse the quinoa and farro under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa, farro, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover, letting it simmer until both grains are tender and the liquid is absorbed, approximately 15-20 minutes.
As the grains cook, prepare the vegetables. In a large bowl, toss the diced zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Spread the seasoned vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
Once the grains are cooked, fluff them with a fork and set aside. When the vegetables are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Now it’s time to assemble your harvest grain bowl. Start by placing a generous scoop of the quinoa and farro mixture in a bowl. Top with the roasted vegetables and add sliced avocado for creaminess. If you’d like, sprinkle some feta cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
Finish with a garnish of fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar for a touch of brightness. This Harvest Grain Bowl not only looks like a work of art but also tastes like a warm hug on a cool day. It’s perfect for a nutritious lunch or a cozy dinner. Enjoy each bite as you reflect on the beautiful flavors of the season, just like I did on that memorable day at the market.