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Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Base:
Start by cooking your base. I usually go with quinoa because it’s quick to prepare and packed with protein, but you can use any grain you like. If you have leftovers, even better! Simply reheat and use it as your base.
2. Roast the Veggies:
While the quinoa is cooking, chop up some of your favorite veggies—sweet potato, zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli are all great options. Toss them in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. You can also toss them in the air fryer for a crispier result!
3. Assemble Your Lunch:
Once the quinoa and veggies are ready, it’s time to assemble. Start by adding your quinoa to the bowl, then pile on the roasted veggies, greens, chickpeas, and avocado slices. You can add a few dollops of hummus or tahini on top for creaminess and flavor.
4. Drizzle and Season:
Finish off your bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. If you want to take it up a notch, add a little lemon juice for some brightness, or crumble feta or sprinkle seeds for extra texture and flavor.
5. Mix and Enjoy:
Give everything a good mix to combine all the flavors and enjoy your hearty, nutritious lunch!
Customizing Your Favorite Lunch:
One of the best parts about this dish is how customizable it is. Here are some simple swaps to make it your own:
- Add protein: For an extra protein boost, toss in grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu. Or add a hard-boiled egg on top!
- Change the grains: If quinoa isn’t your thing, you can swap it for brown rice, farro, or even a whole wheat pita on the side.
- Extra veggies: The sky’s the limit! Add roasted or raw veggies like carrots, tomatoes, or cucumbers for more crunch and color.
- Dress it up: If you’re craving something with a bit more flavor, try a vinaigrette or a tangy Greek yogurt dressing.
Why You’ll Love This Lunch:
- Balanced and filling: This meal hits the sweet spot between healthy and satisfying. The grains provide the carbs, the avocado and hummus offer healthy fats, and the veggies pack a punch of vitamins and fiber.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a double batch and store in the fridge for an easy lunch all week long. This recipe keeps well and tastes just as good the next day.
- Great for any diet: Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or looking to cut back on meat, this recipe works for almost any dietary preference. Plus, it’s gluten-free!
Final Thoughts:
If you’re looking for a lunch that’s both nourishing and delicious, this is it. It’s simple, customizable, and tastes just as good as it looks. With the right mix of grains, veggies, and protein, this lunch will not only keep you full but leave you feeling energized and ready to take on the rest of your day.
Hands down, this is my favorite lunch ever, and I’m confident it will become one of your go-to recipes as well. Enjoy it solo or share it with family and friends—either way, you can’t go wrong with this satisfying, feel-good meal!
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