Hearty Winter Grain Bowl

When the temperature drops, nothing satisfies quite like a Hearty Winter Grain Bowl. This nourishing dish combines the earthy tones of roasted root vegetables with the vibrant crunch of sautéed greens and the comforting texture of warm grains, all tied together by a silky, tangy tahini dressing.

Save

Whether you choose nutty farro or light quinoa, this bowl provides a balanced meal that keeps you fueled and focused during cold winter days. It is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.

Ingredients

Grains

• 1 cup farro or quinoa (for gluten-free option)
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water

Roasted Root Vegetables

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 parsnips, peeled and diced
• 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Greens

• 4 cups kale or Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Pinch of salt

Dressing

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 tbsp warm water (more as needed)
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings (optional)

• 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (omit for vegan)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2

In a large bowl, toss the carrots, parsnips, and sweet potato with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are golden and tender.

Step 3

Meanwhile, rinse your grains. In a medium saucepan, combine the grains and broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until tender (about 20 minutes for quinoa, 30 minutes for farro). Drain any excess liquid if necessary.

Step 4

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the chopped greens and a pinch of salt; cook, stirring frequently, until the greens are wilted (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 5

For the dressing, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, warm water, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust with more water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6

To assemble, divide the warm grains between four bowls. Top with a generous portion of roasted vegetables and sautéed greens, then drizzle with the tahini dressing.

Step 7

Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Ensure you have a large baking sheet for roasting to avoid crowding the vegetables, which ensures they get golden rather than steamed. Using a whisk for the tahini dressing is essential to achieve that perfectly smooth, emulsified texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily swap the root vegetables for beets or turnips depending on what's in season. To make this dish completely vegan, simply omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative. For those needing extra protein, roasted chickpeas or grilled chicken make excellent additions.

Serviervorschläge

This hearty bowl pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with a twist of lemon. It's an ideal main dish for a cozy dinner or a sophisticated lunch.

Save

This Hearty Winter Grain Bowl is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of seasonal ingredients that bring warmth and wellness to your table. Enjoy every bite of this wholesome, colorful creation.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The grains and roasted vegetables keep well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Store the dressing separately and add fresh greens when serving.

→ What other grains work well?

Brown rice, wheat berries, barley, or even millet make excellent substitutes. Just adjust cooking time according to package instructions.

→ How can I add more protein?

Roasted chickpeas, grilled chicken, baked tofu, or a poached egg all complement the flavors beautifully while boosting protein content.

→ Is this freezer-friendly?

The grains and roasted vegetables freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before adding fresh toppings.

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Beets, turnips, butternut squash, or Brussels sprouts work wonderfully. Adjust roasting times as needed for uniform tenderness.