Ingredients
Scale
For the Roasted Butternut Squash:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Crispy Chickpeas:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Farro (or other grain of choice):
- 1 cup farro (or quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for gluten-free option)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- Pinch of salt
For the Herb Avocado Dressing:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (optional)
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup water (adjust to desired consistency)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh greens like arugula or spinach
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese (omit for vegan)
- Toasted seeds (sunflower or pumpkin seeds) for crunch
- Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season the squash: Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) in a large bowl until evenly coated.
- Roast the squash: Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized on the edges.
Step 2: Make the Crispy Chickpeas
- Prepare the chickpeas: While the squash is roasting, pat the chickpeas dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture (this helps them crisp up better).
- Season the chickpeas: Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Roast the chickpeas: Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a separate baking sheet. Roast in the same oven as the squash for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Step 3: Cook the Farro
- Cook the farro: In a medium saucepan, combine farro and water (or vegetable broth) with a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the farro is tender but still chewy. Drain any excess water and set aside.
Note: If using quinoa or another grain, follow the package instructions for cooking time and liquid ratio.
Step 4: Make the Herb Avocado Dressing
- Blend the ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, cilantro (or parsley), basil (if using), garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
- Season the dressing: Taste and season with salt and pepper to your preference. If you want a tangier dressing, add more lemon juice.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
- Layer the bowls: In each serving bowl, add a generous scoop of cooked farro as the base.
- Top with roasted squash and chickpeas: Arrange the roasted butternut squash and crispy chickpeas over the farro.
- Drizzle with avocado dressing: Spoon the herb avocado dressing generously over the top.
- Garnish: Add any optional toppings such as fresh greens, crumbled cheese, toasted seeds, or red pepper flakes for extra texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Sodium: 380mg
- Protein: 12g