Dinner tonight! The Quinoa Bowl

I love these things! Quinoa bowls are the answer to a healthy, fast and easy dinner you can prepare with whatever you have in your kitchen.

They are for the days when you’re trying to corral kids into the house at 5:00pm with school bags, lunch boxes, art projects and the mail falling out of your arms along with no idea what you’re having for dinner.  They’re for the days when you want something fast and healthy but don’t feel like cooking a big meal, and they’re for the days when you want to feel nicely full without feeling like you ate a big, unhealthy meal.

They have become such a staple in my house that I make some variation of them several nights a week. I like to make extra and eat the leftovers for lunch and heck, I’ve been known to eat them for breakfast too. Here’s the beauty of them:

• They can be different every time you make them

• You can use whatever ingredients you have in your house

• You’re only using 1 to 2 pans, which means less clean up for you

The basic formula is simple. Use mostly veggies, add in healthy grains, lean protein and top with a few tasty extras.

Step 1: Cook your quinoa (or other grain)

Step 2: If using chicken, begin by sauteing over medium heat.

Step 3: Add in chopped veggies, leaving the leafy greens to last

Step 4: Finish with some extras – a sprinkle of lemon juice, a dash of tamari, feta cheese crumbles or an avocado.

The variations are endless!

Craving Italian? Try quinoa, onion, garlic, swiss chard, and tomatoes. Finish with parmesan cheese over the top.

Craving Mexican? Try quinoa, onions, peppers, black beans, avocado with salsa over the top.

Craving Asian? How about cabbage, mushrooms, carrots, peanuts and tamari or soy sauce?

My favorite could be called the Kitchen Sink – quinoa and all veggies I can find topped with fresh lemon juice, roasted red pepper flakes and parmesan cheese.

You’re going to love these. Leave me a comment and let me know what your favorite kind is!