Herb Grain Bowl

A colorful, nutrient-dense grain bowl combining fluffy cooked quinoa, tender roasted zucchini, blanched green peas, fresh aromatic herbs, paper-thin sliced radishes, and crunchy walnuts, tossed in a vibrant citrus-herb dressing.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked quinoa (white, red, or mixed)
  • 3 medium zucchini (cut into medium cubes)
  • 2 medium leeks (white and pale green parts, washed and sliced)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for roasting)
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 2 cups sweet frozen green peas
  • 1 cup fresh mixed herbs (dill, cilantro, parsley, and green onion, chopped)
  • 1 cup fresh baby arugula leaves
  • 5 fresh red radishes (sliced paper-thin)
  • ½ cup raw walnuts (coarsely chopped and toasted)

For the Citrus Vinaigrette:

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1.5 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 garlic clove (finely grated)
  • Pinch of sea salt & freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Toss cubed zucchini and sliced leeks with 2 tbsp olive oil and salt in a bowl. Spread evenly onto the baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender and lightly golden.
  3. Place frozen green peas in a heatproof bowl, cover with boiling water, let sit for 3 minutes, then drain completely.
  4. Whisk vinaigrette ingredients together in a small jar.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted zucchini and leeks, blanched green peas, baby arugula, fresh herbs, and paper-thin sliced radishes.
  6. Pour the citrus vinaigrette over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to coat.
  7. Divide into wide serving bowls and top with toasted walnuts right before serving.

Nutritional Values & Benefits

  • Complete Plant Protein & Sustained Energy: Quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete plant protein source. Combined with vegetables, peas, and healthy fats, it makes a satisfying and nutrient-rich meal.
  • Digestive Fiber & Plant Compounds: Radishes, zucchini, peas, herbs, and quinoa provide dietary fiber and a variety of naturally occurring plant compounds that contribute to a balanced, nutrient-rich diet.
  • Healthy Fats & Plant-Based Omega-3s: Walnuts provide alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, while walnuts and extra virgin olive oil provide predominantly unsaturated fats.