Harvest Quinoa Bowl
About the Harvest Quinoa Bowl
The Harvest Quinoa Bowl is a vibrant, nutrient-dense dish that captures the essence of fall with its rich and varied ingredients. Originating from the ancient South American civilizations that cherished quinoa as a staple, this bowl is a contemporary twist combining colorful vegetables, proteins, and grains suitable for the modern palate. Known for its balanced nutritional profile, this dish is as appealing to the eyes as it is nourishing to the body. The Harvest Quinoa Bowl symbolizes bounty and is perfect for those seeking a healthy yet fulfilling meal option, embodying the philosophy of mindful eating.
Ingredients
- Quinoa - 1 cup
- Butternut Squash - 2 cups, diced
- Kale - 2 cups, chopped
- Pecans - 1/2 cup
- Dried Cranberries - 1/3 cup
- Feta Cheese - 1/2 cup, crumbled
- Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
- Maple Syrup - 1 tablespoon
- Balsamic Vinegar - 1 tablespoon
- Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
- Clove - a pinch
- Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
Preparation
The key to a perfect Harvest Quinoa Bowl lies in the meticulous preparation and blending of its wholesome components. Begin by rinsing and soaking the quinoa to remove its natural coating, which can affect taste. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, dice the butternut squash, ensuring uniform pieces for even roasting.
Cooking Process
Start by cooking the quinoa. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed. For precise timing, consider using a cooking timer to avoid overcooked quinoa. Remove from heat and let it stand for five minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Next, toss the butternut squash cubes in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, cinnamon, a pinch of clove, salt, and black pepper. Spread the seasoned squash on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven, turning occasionally for about 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
While the butternut squash roasts, heat a large pan over medium heat. Add a teaspoon of olive oil and sauté the kale until it wilts, which takes about 5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar to create a simple dressing for the bowl.
Assembly and Serving
To assemble the Harvest Quinoa Bowl, start by placing a generous scoop of cooked quinoa as the base in each bowl. Top it with a portion of roasted butternut squash and sautéed kale, then sprinkle with pecans, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the homemade dressing over the top, and your Harvest Quinoa Bowl is ready to serve.
Enjoy the Meal
The Harvest Quinoa Bowl is best enjoyed immediately to savor the contrast of textures and the harmony of flavors. It's a versatile dish that can be tailored to personal tastes—feel free to swap out pecans for other nuts or add a protein like grilled chicken or tofu. Whether enjoying as a hearty lunch or a light dinner, each bite is a celebration of nourishing ingredients and comforting taste.