Fresh Green Goddess Grain Bowl Recipe
Green Goddess Grain Bowl
Today on the Takrecipe website, we’re diving into a vibrant, nourishing, and utterly satisfying dish: the Green Goddess Grain Bowl. This colorful bowl is a delightful medley of whole grains, fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, and a herby, tangy Green Goddess dressing that brings everything together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re craving a wholesome lunch or a light dinner, this recipe is packed with flavor, texture, and nutrients that will leave you feeling energized and refreshed.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- 1 cup arugula
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Green Goddess Dressing
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chives
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the quinoa
Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating, which can taste bitter. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Make the Green Goddess dressing
While the quinoa cooks, prepare the dressing. In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, basil, parsley, chives, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of water or more lemon juice to thin it out to your preferred consistency.
3. Assemble the bowls
Divide the cooked quinoa evenly among four bowls. Arrange the chopped spinach, arugula, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and red onion on top of each portion. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and feta cheese, if using. Drizzle generously with the Green Goddess dressing and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve and enjoy
Your Green Goddess Grain Bowls are ready to enjoy! Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or store in the refrigerator for up to two days if preparing ahead. For extra protein, you can top with grilled chicken, tofu, or a soft-boiled egg.
Tip 1: Use leftover grains
🟢 This bowl works wonderfully with any cooked grain like brown rice, farro, or barley if you don’t have quinoa on hand.
Tip 2: Keep ingredients cold
🟢 Chill your veggies and dressing before assembling to keep the bowl fresh and crisp.
Tip 3: Make it vegan
🟢 Simply swap Greek yogurt for a plant-based alternative and skip the feta to keep this dish completely vegan.