Grain bowls just got a Green Goddess makeover

Everyone needs a solution to the never-ending question: “What’s for dinner?” If you want to streamline meals without sacrificing flavor or nutrition, meal prepping grain bowls is a game-changer.

These versatile bowls feature healthy grains, fresh veggies and flavor-packed toppings for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Whether you’re new to meal prep or looking for new ideas, grain bowls are an easy, healthy, budget-friendly way to stay on track with your eating goals.

This pantry powerhouse is nutty, chewy and satisfying — plus, it’s cheap and easy to cook, making it perfect for meal prepping ahead.

In 1 cup of cooked pearl barley, you get 3.6 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber. That’s some serious staying power for a humble grain that cooks while you sip your iced tea.

You know I love a good recipe mash-up, right? Well, hold on to your socks for this one.

If you’re a fan of grain bowls for their versatility and balance, and you love Green Goddess salads for their vibrant, nutrient-packed goodness, this one’s for you.

Just like a grain bowl, the Green Goddess salad is a perfect base for customization — see where I’m going with this? Let’s make a Green Goddess Grain Bowl!

You can’t have a Green Goddess salad without the dressing, typically made with ingredients like avocado; herbs like parsley, cilantro and chives; lemon or lime juice — I used lime here; and yogurt or sour cream, which gives the salad a fresh, herbaceous flavor that’s both tangy and satisfying.

To prep barley: Toss together the cooked barley with 1/3 cup dressing, stir, taste and adjust seasonings. Refrigerate until needed. This is delicious. Try to leave some for the salad.

To assemble salad: For the salad itself, let’s start with a bed of mixed greens with a serving of cooked barley. Toss 1/3 cup dressing with prepared salad greens — 8 cups for 4 servings — in a large bowl. Divide evenly among serving bowls. Add barley. Then add an array of colorful vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, tomatoes, green and red onion, sliced carrots and avocado. Top with the remaining dressing.

For added protein, try topping your salad with cooked chicken or fish — grilled salmon pairs particularly well with the herby dressing.

This vibrant veggie and protein-packed combo delivers a satisfying, balanced meal that’s perfect for any time of day.

Simply Pearl Barley

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 cup barley (pearled)

3 cups water or vegetable broth

Pinch of salt

Procedure

Rinse the barley under cold running water. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the rinsed barley and salt. Bring to a simmer then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer 25 minutes until tender, but still slightly chewy.

Remove from heat and rest, covered, for 5 minutes, then drain any excess liquid. Fluff with a fork and use immediately — or cool and store in the fridge for meal prep.

Green Goddess Salad Dressing

Servings: 1 cup

Ingredients

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro

2 tablespoons fresh parsley

1 teaspoon dried dill

1 avocado, diced

1/2 cup plain yogurt

1 green onion, chopped

1 small clove garlic, smashed

1 lime, juice and zest

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

Salt and pepper, to taste

Procedure

Place all dressing ingredients in a food processor or blender and process until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing is potent. Add additional yogurt to taste, if desired.