
Energizing Breakfast Bowl for CEOs
Recipe Overview
Start your day with our Energizing Breakfast Bowl, a wholesome dish designed to fuel even the busiest of CEOs. This recipe combines nutrient-dense foods like quinoa, avocado, and mixed greens, creating a balanced breakfast rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Whether you want to kick off a productive day at work or prepare for a busy meeting, this versatile bowl is your go-to.
The research-backed flavors strike a balance between savory and fresh: the nutty, earthy quinoa pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado and the tart burst of cherry tomatoes. Each bite is a delightful mix of tender, crunchy, and creamy textures that will keep you satisfied until lunchtime.
Prep and Cook Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Skill Level: Beginner
Serving Information
This recipe yields 2 servings. Serve in a large bowl and garnish with additional avocado slices, a sprinkle of sunflower seeds, or a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette for extra flair.
Ingredients List
- 1 cup (185 g) quinoa (rinsed)
- 2 cups (480 ml) water
- 1 ripe avocado (sliced)
- 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 2 cups (60 g) mixed greens (such as spinach and arugula)
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional: 1/4 cup (40 g) sunflower seeds or nuts for crunch
Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option: Quinoa is naturally gluten-free.
- Vegan: Replace honey with maple syrup if you decide to add a touch of sweetness.
- Extra protein: Add cooked chicken or chickpeas.
Prepped Ingredients:
- Rinse quinoa under cold water before cooking.
Equipment List
- Medium saucepan: For cooking the quinoa.
- Cutting board and knife: To slice vegetables.
- Mixing bowl: For combining oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy in measuring ingredients.
- Serving bowls: To present your breakfast bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Cook the Quinoa:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 more minutes.
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Prepare the Dressing:
- While quinoa is cooking, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Set aside.
-
Chop and Assemble:
- Slice the avocado and halve the cherry tomatoes on your cutting board.
- In two serving bowls, start with a base of mixed greens. Add a serving of quinoa to each bowl.
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Add Toppings:
- Top each quinoa bowl with sliced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and any optional toppings like sunflower seeds or nuts for added texture and crunch.
- Drizzle with Dressing:
- Generously drizzle the dressing over each bowl and serve immediately.
Technique Tips and Troubleshooting
- Perfecting Quinoa: To avoid mushy quinoa, make sure to rinse it before cooking to remove its natural coating called saponin, which can give it a bitter taste.
- Storing Avocado: To keep your avocado fresh while prepping, leave the pit in any extra halves; this helps slow down browning.
Plating and Presentation
For a visually appealing presentation, arrange the toppings in a circular pattern to showcase the colorful ingredients. Drizzle a light balsamic glaze over the top for a polished finish and serve with a small bowl of extra dressing on the side.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the quinoa in a microwave or skillet, adding a splash of water to help steam it back to life.
Variations and Customizations
- Smoothie Bowl: Blend leftover quinoa with some almond milk, banana, and spinach for a smoothie bowl variation.
- Seasonal Add-Ins: Feel free to add seasonal veggies such as bell peppers or cucumbers, or even roasted sweet potatoes for a twist.
Notes on Ingredients and Equipment
- When selecting avocados, choose ones that yield slightly to pressure—this means they are ripe and perfect for slicing.
- A fine mesh strainer is handy for rinsing quinoa if you don’t want to use a colander.
Final Touches and Personal Notes
I created this breakfast bowl not just for its nutritional benefits but also for its deliciously satisfying combination of ingredients. It’s a staple in my routine, helping me start the day on a high note, ready for the challenges ahead. I encourage you to experiment with your favorite toppings or dressings!
If you try this recipe, please share your results or any personal twists you added—I’d love to hear how it turned out!
FAQ Questions and Answers:
-
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the quinoa and store it in the fridge. Assemble the bowl right before serving.
-
Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
- Absolutely! Brown rice, barley, or farro work well as substitutes.
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What if I don’t have any cherry tomatoes?
- You can use any other fresh vegetables you have, such as cucumbers or bell peppers.
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Is this meal suitable for meal prep?
- Yes! This dish holds up well in the fridge and can be made in bulk for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
- How can I add more protein to the bowl?
- Consider adding hard-boiled eggs, Greek yogurt, or chickpeas for added protein.
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