Hearty School Lunch Bowls

In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards prioritizing healthy eating habits, particularly in schools and workplaces. Parents are increasingly aware of the importance of providing nutritious meals that not only fuel their children’s energy levels but also promote overall well-being. This growing awareness has sparked a demand for convenient yet wholesome lunch options that can be easily prepared ahead of time. Enter the Hearty School Lunch Bowls—a versatile and nutritious solution that caters to the diverse dietary needs of both kids and adults.

Discover the perfect solution for nutritious meals with Hearty School Lunch Bowls! These versatile bowls cater to everyone's dietary needs, from kids to adults, offering a satisfying blend of quinoa, protein options like grilled chicken or chickpeas, and a rainbow of fresh vegetables. Ideal for meal prepping, these bowls ensure healthy eating is easy and delicious. Explore customizable flavors with various toppings and dressings, making lunchtime exciting and nourishing for the whole family.

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Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth (or water, if preferred)

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (or 1 cup cooked chickpeas for the vegetarian option)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup diced cucumbers

1 cup shredded carrots

1 cup steamed broccoli florets

1/2 ripe avocado, sliced

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

1/4 cup hummus or tzatziki for dressing

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid and appears fluffy. Afterward, remove from heat and allow it to sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to steam.

Prepare Additional Ingredients: While the quinoa is cooking, take the time to chop the cherry tomatoes in half and dice the cucumbers. Next, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender but still slightly crisp, approximately 5-7 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Assemble the Bowls: After the quinoa has cooled slightly, use a fork to fluff it. Evenly divide the fluffy quinoa among four bowls or meal prep containers, creating a base for your lunch bowls.

Layer on the Veggies: Top each bowl with equal portions of your protein choice: either the shredded chicken or chickpeas. Then, add the prepared cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and steamed broccoli in an appealing layered manner.

Add the Final Touches: On top of the vibrant veggie layers, neatly arrange slices of avocado. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the bowls for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Dress the Bowls: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. Drizzle this dressing over each assembled bowl. Include a generous spoonful of hummus or tzatziki on the side for additional flavor.

Garnish: To enhance visual appeal and taste, finish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.

Store or Serve: You can enjoy these hearty lunch bowls immediately, or cover and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They are perfect for a nutritious meal that can be enjoyed cold or reheated!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4