Name: Delicious Autumn Grain Bowls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup farro, rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon dried sage; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 apple (e.g., Honeycrisp), chopped; ½ cup dried cranberries; ½ cup pecans, chopped; 4 cups baby spinach; ¼ cup apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; ¼ cup olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional toppings: crumbled goat cheese, pomegranate seeds, toasted pumpkin seeds

Autumn Grain Bowls are the perfect tribute to the vibrant flavors of the fall season. This hearty dish is bursting with roasted vegetables, nutty farro, and a tangy maple vinaigrette that ties everything together beautifully. When you think of cozy autumn meals, these grain bowls should be at the top of your list. Not only are they satisfying, but they are also loaded with nutrients, making them an excellent choice for lunch or dinner.

Imagine sitting down to a warm bowl filled with tender farro, perfectly roasted butternut squash, and sweet apples, drizzled with a homemade vinaigrette that sports the perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness from the maple syrup. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables and nuts you have on hand. Plus, it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and health benefits, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

The beauty of Autumn Grain Bowls lies in their simplicity and the joy of mixing colors on your plate. This fall dish will not only delight your taste buds but also brighten your kitchen and dining table with its warm hues. So gather your ingredients and get ready to cook a whimsically appealing meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Autumn Grain Bowl

This Autumn Grain Bowl is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of the season’s bounty. Here’s why you will absolutely love this recipe:

Nutritious and Filling: With farro, roasted veggies, and healthy fats from nuts and olive oil, this bowl will keep you satiated for hours.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of sweet and savory elements, from apples to maple syrup, ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Easy to Prepare: The recipe is simple, taking under an hour to prepare and cook, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Customizable: Switch up the veggies, grains, or even the nuts according to your preferences or what’s available in your pantry.
Great for Meal Prep: Make this dish in advance for lunches throughout the week. It holds up well in the fridge!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Ensure you have a medium saucepan for cooking farro and a large mixing bowl to combine all your ingredients later. You’ll also need a cutting board and sharp knife for chopping the vegetables and apples. An oven-safe baking dish or tray will be essential for roasting your veggies and fruit. Make sure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C) before you start roasting, as this ensures your vegetables become nicely caramelized.

Ingredients

To create delightful Autumn Grain Bowls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup farro, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried sage
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 apple (e.g., Honeycrisp), chopped
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup pecans, chopped
4 cups baby spinach
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
¼ cup olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: crumbled goat cheese, pomegranate seeds, toasted pumpkin seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Farro

Start by placing the rinsed farro in a medium saucepan. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a lively boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 25–30 minutes or until farro is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. When done, fluff it with a fork and set it aside while you continue to prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Roast the Veggies & Apple

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you haven’t already. In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash, chopped red bell pepper, and diced apple with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure all pieces are well coated in oil. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until everything is tender and caramelized. Set the roasted veggies aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm up. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5–7 minutes until it turns translucent. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, sage, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Cook this aromatic blend for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld before removing it from heat.

Step 4: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. While continuing to whisk, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until you achieve a smooth, well combined vinaigrette. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preference!

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

In your skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic, add the cooked farro and stir until everything is mixed well. Then, gently fold in the roasted vegetables, chopped apple, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and baby spinach. Stir until the spinach is slightly wilted, incorporating all the flavors together nicely.

Step 6: Dress and Serve

Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the farro mixture, tossing gently to combine. Divide the grain bowl into individual serving bowls. For an extra touch, feel free to top with crumbled goat cheese, pomegranate seeds, or toasted pumpkin seeds to add layers of flavor and texture. Enjoy your hearty fall meal!

Variations

Protein: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
Vegetables: Substitute seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or kale for variety.
Spices: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or parsley, or add a hint of curry powder for a twist.

Cooking Notes

Be sure to rinse the farro before cooking to remove any debris and improve its flavor.
You can prep the roasted veggies and vinaigrette ahead of time for quicker assembly during busy weeks.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your autumn grain bowls with a light salad or warm soup for a complete meal.
Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping.

Tips

Roasting time may vary depending on the size of your vegetable cubes; cut them evenly for uniform cooking.
Let the flavors meld for a few hours or overnight in the fridge for even better taste when reheating.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: About 10g
Sodium: 500mg

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute farro with quinoa, rice, or any other gluten-free grain to maintain the delicious flavors.

What can I add to make it heartier?

For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked lentils, beans, or even some shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! This dish holds up well in the refrigerator for a few days, making it perfect for meal prep.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Autumn Grain Bowls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Autumn Grain Bowls are a delicious, healthful way to enjoy the flavors of fall, featuring a stunning array of colors and textures. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but completely customizable, so you can enjoy it exactly how you like. We encourage you to experiment with different ingredients, share your variations in the comments, and spread the word about this delightful dish. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, these grain bowls are guaranteed to bring warmth and comfort to your table. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your thoughts or ask questions below!