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Loaded Veggie Grain Bowls with Avocado Ranch Recipe


  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

For the Grain Bowls:

  • 1 cup quinoa, farro, or any grain of choice (cooked)
  • 1 large sweet potato, diced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

For the Avocado Ranch Dressing:

  • 1 ripe avocado
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative for vegans)
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup milk or water (to adjust consistency)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Grains

  • Begin by cooking your chosen grains (quinoa or farro) according to package instructions. Quinoa usually takes around 15 minutes, while farro can take 20-25 minutes. Once cooked, set aside and fluff with a fork. These grains provide the base for the bowls, adding fiber, protein, and a hearty texture.

Step 2: Prepare and Roast the Vegetables

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Place diced sweet potatoes, zucchini, red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and sliced red onion on a baking sheet.
  • Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are well-coated with the seasoning.
  • Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized at the edges.

Step 3: Roast the Chickpeas

  • While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the chickpeas. After draining and rinsing the chickpeas, pat them dry with a paper towel.
  • Spread them on a separate baking sheet, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  • Roast in the oven for 20 minutes or until crispy, shaking the pan halfway through. These will add a delicious crunch to your grain bowls.

Step 4: Make the Avocado Ranch Dressing

  • While the grains and vegetables cook, prepare the creamy avocado ranch dressing.
  • In a food processor or blender, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, dill, and parsley.
  • Blend until smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, add a tablespoon of water or milk at a time to thin it out until you reach the desired consistency.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Grain Bowls

  • Once everything is cooked, it’s time to assemble your bowls.
  • Start with a generous scoop of the cooked grains in each bowl.
  • Layer on the roasted vegetables and crispy chickpeas.
  • Drizzle the avocado ranch dressing over the top, ensuring you get that rich, creamy goodness in every bite.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450
  • Sodium: 340mg
  • Carbohydrates: 65g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 14g