Food 7 years ago

Winter Bliss Buddha Bowl

Hi everyone! It’s Tieghan from Half Baked Harvest. Today I’m sharing one of my favorite easy and healthy winter recipes that will have you feeling energized and leave your skin glowing.

Winter has a bad rap for not having the best produce, but the truth is that winter is actually full of bright and colorful produce like root vegetables and citrus. One of my favorite ways to get in plenty of veggies during the winter months is to make a Buddha Bowl like this one. I roast up tons of veggies, add whole grains, beans/legumes, avocado, and finish everything off with a fun dressing to give the bowl plenty of flavor. 

During the winter months, our skin often becomes dull and dry, so I wanted to create a recipe that would promote healthy skin during these dry winter months. Enter this pretty, loaded bowl full of veggies, whole grains, and plenty of healthy fats. I listed below the superstar ingredients of this Buddha Bowl.

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Sweet Potatoes – high in vitamin C, which promotes a healthy, glowing complexion.

Broccoli – gives your complexion a beautiful natural glow. Broccoli is also high in vitamin C (it actually contains more than an orange!).

Purple Cabbage – rich in vitamins C and K and high in anti–oxidants. Gives the skin a smooth, clear glow.

Lemons – a great source of calcium, vitamin C, magnesium and potassium, as well as minerals and antioxidants. All of which help to improve the appearance and condition of your hair, skin, and even your nails. 

Avocado – full of the fatty acids and antioxidants. The fatty acids help to moisturize and soften skin cells, while avocado’s antioxidants (beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E) prevent wrinkles and slow down the visible signs of aging.

Lentils – provide a high content of protein and fiber.

Combining all of these ingredients into one power bowl not only makes for a filling lunch or dinner but one that will leave you looking and feeling your best. To make things easier during the work week, I love preparing all the elements of the bowl on Sunday and keeping them stored in the fridge for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. I simply roast up my veggies, cook my grains and lentils, and make my dressing, then all I have to do is put everything together the day of. Great for desk lunches or nights when all you want to do is hit the couch after work.

Winter Bliss Buddha Bowl

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 2-4 (with extra dressing)

2 heads broccoli, cut into florets
1 large sweet potato, cut into wedges
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
kosher salt and pepper
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
2 cups shredded purple cabbage
juice from 1 lemon
1 cup cooked quinoa, brown rice, or mixed ancient grains
1 cup cooked green lentils
2 carrots, shredded
1 avocado, sliced
1 caracara or blood orange, sliced
sprouts and hemp seeds, for serving

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
2. Place the sweet potatoes on a large baking sheet and toss with 1 tablespoons olive oil, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Transfer to the oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, then remove from the oven. Add the broccoli, the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the sesame seeds, toss to coat. Return to the oven and roast for another 15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are done to your likeness.
3. Meanwhile, combine the cabbage, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl and massage with your hands for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
4. To assemble, toss the rice with the lentils and divide among bowls. Add the roasted veggies, cabbage, carrots, avocado, and oranges. Top with sprouts and hemp seeds and drizzle with the dressing (recipe follows).

Turmeric Ginger Dressing

½ cup cashews
1-2 cloves garlic, smashed
1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon real maple syrup
juice from 1 lemon
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
kosher salt and pepper
pinch of cayenne pepper

1. Combine all ingredients in a high powdered blender and blend until mostly smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

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And the best part about this bowl? It. Is. Delicious! The roasted veggies, with avocado, grains, and fresh citrus are the perfect cozy, yet healthy pairing. The turmeric dressing adds a nice creamy element, and a punch of sweetness. If your meals are in need of a little color, this bowl is for you!

x Half Baked Harvest

Credits:

Photos via Half Baked Harvest