Summer Grain Bowls: Four Refreshing Recipes

Exploring the Base: Best Grains for Refreshing Summer Bowls

When you’re melting under the summer sun, nothing hits the spot quite like a vibrant, refreshing grain bowl. Choosing the perfect grain base sets the tone for the dish, and grains like quinoa, buckwheat, millet, and barley are just the ticket. These superstars are fantastic at soaking up dressings and spices, ensuring that every spoonful is as delightful as the last. Let’s create some bowls that’ll keep you cool when the kitchen—or anywhere else—is anything but.

Zesty Quinoa and Avocado Bowl: A Cool Recipe for Hot Days 

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Nothing beats a grain bowl that mixes the complete protein of quinoa with the creaminess of avocado, accented with tomatoes and a zingy lime dressing. Here’s how you whip up this refreshing delight:

• Quinoa: 1 cup (185g)
• Water: 2 cups (470ml)
• Large avocado, diced: 1
• Cherry tomatoes, halved: 1 cup (150g)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped: 1/4 cup (4g)
• Lime juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Arugula or mixed greens for extra crunch

Directions:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan, add the quinoa, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa with the avocado, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice, season with salt and pepper, and toss everything together. Serve over a bed of arugula or mixed greens for that extra leafy crunch.

Buckwheat and Fresh Herbs Bowl: Light and Flavorful Summer Eating

Buckwheat, a gluten-free seed, shines in the summer thanks to its quick-cooking nature and nutty flavor. Pair it with fresh herbs and a tangy lemon dressing for a simply irresistible bowl:

• Buckwheat groats: 1 cup (170g)
• Water: 2 cups (470ml)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley, dill, mint), chopped: 1/3 cup (15g) – Cucumber, diced: 1
• Red onion, finely chopped: 1/2
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil: 3 tablespoons (45ml)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Cook the buckwheat in boiling water for about 10 minutes or until tender, then drain and let cool.
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the cooled buckwheat with the fresh herbs, cucumber, and red onion. Whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil, pour over the salad, and season with salt and pepper.

Mixing It Up: Millet with Crunchy Veggies and Citrus Dressing

Millet may be the underdog of grains but shines brightly when paired with crispy veggies and a zesty citrus dressing:

• Millet: 1 cup (200g)
• Water: 2.5 cups (590ml)
• Bell pepper, diced: 1
• Carrot, julienned: 1
• Radishes, thinly sliced: 1/2 cup (75g)
• Scallions, chopped: 2
• Orange juice – Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml)
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Toast the millet in a dry pan until it starts to pop, then add water and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook until the water is absorbed and the millet is fluffy. Let it cool.
2. Combine the millet with the bell pepper, carrot, radishes, and scallions. In a small bowl, mix the orange juice, lemon juice, and olive oil. Drizzle over the millet mixture, season with salt and pepper, and toss all together.

Barley and Summer Fruits Bowl: Sweet Meets Savory

Barley’s chewy texture is perfect for a bowl that blends the sweetness of summer fruits with a hint of savory:

• Pearl barley: 1 cup (200g)
• Water: 3 cups (710ml)
• Peach, sliced: 1
• Blueberries: 1/2 cup (75g)
• Fresh mint, chopped: 1/4 cup (10g)
• Honey: 2 tablespoons (30ml)
• Balsamic vinegar: 2 tablespoons (30ml)
• Salt to taste

Directions:

1. Cook the barley in water until tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 30-35 minutes. Drain if necessary and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, add the cooled barley, peach slices, blueberries, and chopped mint. Whisk together the honey and balsamic vinegar, pour over the barley mixture, and gently toss everything together. A pinch of salt will balance the sweetness just right.

Each of these bowls is a testament to summer’s bounty, blending fresh, vibrant flavors with hearty, nutritious grains. Whether it’s a scorching hot day or just a lazy summer afternoon, these recipes are sure to delight. Keep cool and savor each bite!

If you enjoyed this recipe or have suggestions on how we can improve it, please leave us a comment below. Also, make sure to check out other dishes I’ve created or stories I’ve written about food culture – here.