Don’t Be Afraid of the Grain

These three seasonal grain bowls will keep you fueled all day.

Story and photos by Natalie Paramore

Grains have recently gotten somewhat of a negative reputation, but choosing the right grain for you can be both satisfying and delicious. Paired with fresh, seasonal fruits and veggies, grains can help keep you satiated and balance out just about any meal. Here are three quick make-ahead grain bowls perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Strawberry Banana Overnight Oatmeal Bowl

Ingredients

1 cup full-fat yogurt 1/2 cup rolled oats

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup fresh strawberries

1/2 cup bananas, sliced

1 tablespoon cacao nibs

Directions

1. The night before, mix the yogurt, oats, honey, cinnamon and salt. Cover and place the mixture in the refrigerator.
2. The next morning, slice up the strawberries and bananas and put them on top of the oats. Add the cacao nibs as well.

Spicy Cilantro Pesto Farro

Ingredients

1/2 cup farro

1 cup water, or vegetable or chicken broth (for cooking the farro)

1/2 cup cilantro, packed

1 clove garlic

1/4 jalapeño

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 egg

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the farro according to the package directions.
2. Place the egg in boiling water until it is soft-boiled (approximately six minutes). Let the egg cool and then peel it.
3. In a food processor, combine the cilantro, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and jalapeño. Pulse the mixture until a paste forms and it is slightly chunky.
4. Toss the pesto with the farro and top it all with the egg. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Tex-Mex Veggie Bowl

Ingredients

1/2 cup long-grain rice

1 cup water, or vegetable or chicken broth (for cooking the rice)

1/2 cup fresh sweet corn 1/2 an avocado

1/4 cup red onion

2 to 3 baby sweet peppers Fresh-squeezed lime juice Hot sauce (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Make the rice according to the package directions and let it cool slightly.
2. Dice the vegetables and mix them together with the rice, then place them in an airtight container.
3. Squeeze on the lime juice and the optional hot sauce right before eating.