A Vibrant Middle Approach to Seasonal Nourishment
The Late Summer Harvest Bowl is a perfect embodiment of the Vibrant Middle approach to nourishment. This recipe celebrates the abundance of late summer while providing a balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients. By using seasonal ingredients, we align our eating with nature's rhythms, supporting both our personal wellbeing and environmental sustainability.
This bowl offers flexibility, allowing you to customize based on your preferences and available ingredients. As you prepare and enjoy this meal, consider how it represents balance in your own nourishment journey.
This recipe is a practical application of our Vibrant Middle approach to seasonal eating. For more on the benefits of eating with the seasons, check out my posts:
Nature's Bounty: Embracing Late Summer's Harvest
Ingredients
Bowl
※ 2 cups mixed greens
※ 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
※ 1/4 cup each: diced tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers
※ 1/4 avocado, sliced
※ 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
※ Optional: grilled tempeh or tofu (of course you can use meat, but why not challenge yourself to something different!)
Make it your own
If Quinoa isn't available, substitute a different grain -- consider rice (use brown, or explore red and black grains), sorghum, millet.
Dressing
※ 2 tbsp olive oil
※ 1 tbsp lemon juice
※ 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
※ Salt and pepper to taste
Make it your own
If you like a bit of spiciness, consider adding a little bit of chile pepper (dried, Sriracha, or gochujang paste) to balance out the sweetness.
Putting it all together
Arrange greens in a bowl.
Top with quinoa and vegetables (and optional tempeh/tofu/other)
Whisk dressing ingredients and drizzle over the bowl.
Top with avocado and pumpkin seeds.
Make it your own
Sprinkle on some of your favorite spices -- not only do they add a pop of flavor as well as beneficial phytonutrients. Italian spices would be a great option.
As you enjoy this Late Summer Harvest Bowl, take a moment to appreciate the colors, textures, and flavors. Notice how each ingredient contributes to the overall balance of the meal. This mindful approach to eating aligns with the Vibrant Middle philosophy, helping us fully enjoy and benefit from the nourishing foods we consume.
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