Description
This Winter Harvest Dinner Bowl is a vibrant and wholesome meal featuring roasted seasonal root vegetables, cooked barley, salty feta cheese, and crunchy pumpkin seeds, all brought together with a balsamic vinegar drizzle. Perfect as a satisfying main course or a colorful side dish for any gathering, it celebrates the earthy flavors and textures of winter produce.
Ingredients
Scale
Grains and Seeds
- 1 cup cooked barley
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
Vegetables
- 2 cups roasted mixed vegetables (carrots, beets, parsnips)
Dairy
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressings and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Olive oil, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables for roasting. Toss the mixed vegetables (carrots, beets, and parsnips) with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. This will ensure the vegetables roast to a perfect texture and flavor.
- Roast the vegetables. Spread the seasoned vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast them at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes until tender and caramelized, enhancing their natural sweetness and earthiness.
- Combine the main ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked barley, roasted vegetables, crumbled feta cheese, and pumpkin seeds. These components create a balanced dish with varied textures and flavors.
- Add the dressing and toss. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients well, ensuring every bite is flavorful and harmonious.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked barley or leftover barley chilled in the refrigerator for convenience.
- Feel free to substitute or add other winter root vegetables like sweet potatoes or turnips for variety.
- To enhance the pumpkin seeds’ crunch and flavor, toast them lightly in a dry skillet before adding.
- This bowl can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for meal prep or buffet settings.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed after tossing.
