Summer Grain Bowls

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

These summer grain bowls are a fresh, vibrant way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. Packed with flavor and easy to customize, they’re perfect for busy days or relaxed evenings.

• Quick and simple to make, with minimal prep time and easy-to-find ingredients.
• Endlessly customizable, so you can use whatever veggies, grains, or proteins you have on hand.
• Light yet filling, offering a perfect balance of nutrients to keep you energized all day.

Recipe

Grain bowls are a perfect summer meal—light, nutritious, and endlessly customizable. Packed with fresh vegetables, protein, and whole grains, they make a satisfying yet invigorating dish for warm days.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or roasted)
• 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
• 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or kale)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (cilantro, basil, or parsley) for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa or brown rice as the base.
2. Arrange the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, corn, black beans, and mixed greens on top.
3. Sprinkle with feta or goat cheese if using.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice or balsamic vinegar.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh herbs.
6. Toss gently before serving or enjoy as a layered bowl.

Notes:

• Customize with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
• Substitute grains with farro or couscous for variety.
• For extra flavor, add a spoonful of hummus or tahini dressing.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes (if using pre-cooked grains)

Serving: 2

Calories: ~400 per serving

Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired

Equipment

When preparing summer grain bowls, having the right equipment guarantees efficiency and ease. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Saucepan or rice cooker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoons or tongs
• Serving bowls or plates

Nutrition

Summer grain bowls are a nutritious and balanced meal option, packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

What to Serve With This Recipe

I love pairing my summer grain bowls with fresh, crunchy sides like cucumber salad or roasted veggies for extra texture. A chilled glass of iced tea or a citrusy sparkling water makes the meal feel even more invigorating. It’s all about keeping things light and balanced while letting the flavors shine.

Complementary Side Dishes

Grain bowls are already pretty filling, but I’ve found that pairing them with the right side dishes can take your meal to the next level. I love serving a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or fresh fruit for a light, invigorating touch. Warm garlic bread or a tangy slaw adds texture and flavor. Sometimes, I’ll even include a small bowl of soup for extra comfort.

Beverage Pairing Ideas

To make your grain bowl meal even more enjoyable, pairing it with the right drink can really tie everything together. I love sipping on iced green tea or a citrusy sparkling water—they’re light and invigorating. For something heartier, a chilled white wine or a crisp lager works wonders. If I’m feeling fancy, a fruity kombucha adds a fun twist. Experiment and find what makes your taste buds happy!