Green Goddess Pesto Bowls

These Green Goddess Pesto Bowls are a vibrant and nutritious dinner option that will satisfy your cravings while keeping things healthy. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, these bowls are packed with flavors from roasted vegetables, crispy chickpeas, and a creamy homemade pea pesto. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, making them an excellent choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Nutrients: Each bowl is loaded with wholesome ingredients like kale, brussels sprouts, and chickpeas, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
• Easy to Prepare: A simple roasting method combined with a quick blend for the pesto makes this dish easy enough for any cook to master.
• Flavor Explosion: The tandoori chickpeas add a spicy crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy pea pesto, creating a delicious flavor profile.
• Versatile: Customize your bowls by adding your favorite seasonal vegetables or grains for extra texture and flavor.
• Plant-Based Goodness: This recipe is entirely plant-based and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To bring your Green Goddess Pesto Bowls to life, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Mixing bowls
• Blender or food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Ideal for evenly roasting your veggies and chickpeas, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Blender or food processor: Essential for creating a smooth and creamy pea pesto that binds all the flavors together.

Ingredients

These Green Goddess Pesto Bowls are a delicious healthy dinner loaded with potatoes, tandoori chickpeas, brussels sprouts, kale, and an easy homemade pea pesto! Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds and hemp seeds for a nourishing plant-based meal.

For the Vegetables:

• 16 oz brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 large handfuls chopped kale
• 24 oz petite yukon gold potatoes, halved
• olive oil
• salt + pepper

For the Tandoori Chickpeas:

• 15 oz chickpeas
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tandoori spice
• salt to taste

For the Pea Pesto:

• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cups packed basil
• ½ cup parsley
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• ½ cup pine nuts/raw walnuts
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ¼ cup vegan parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon hemp seeds
• pinch salt

How to Make Green Goddess Pesto Bowls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Slice the potatoes in half and place them in a medium bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil (about 1-2 tbsp), sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss to coat well.
3. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

1. Repeat the same process with the brussels sprouts; drizzle them with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then roast for another 20-25 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Tandoori Chickpeas

1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a bowl, drizzle about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chickpeas.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of tandoori spice along with salt; toss to coat evenly.
4. Spread onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Make Pea Pesto

While your veggies are roasting:
1. In your blender or food processor, combine frozen peas, basil, parsley, minced garlic, pine nuts/walnuts, lemon juice, vegan parmesan cheese, olive oil, hemp seeds, and pinch of salt.
2. Blend until smooth; adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Add Kale

Drizzle olive oil over the chopped kale. Add it to another baking sheet (or push veggies aside) during the last few minutes of roasting.

Step 7: Assemble Your Bowls

Once everything is cooked:
1. Place each veggie into your serving bowls.
2. Top generously with pea pesto.
3. Garnish with hemp seeds and toasted pumpkin seeds if desired.

Enjoy this colorful dish full of flavors that everyone will love!

How to Serve Green Goddess Pesto Bowls

These Green Goddess Pesto Bowls are not only nutritious but also versatile. You can easily customize them based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Add a Protein Boost

• Grilled Chicken: Slice grilled chicken breast and add for extra protein.
• Roasted Turkey: Shredded roasted turkey makes a hearty addition.
• Lentils: For a plant-based protein, toss in some cooked lentils.

Include Extra Greens

• Spinach: Mix in fresh spinach for added nutrients and color.
• Arugula: Add arugula for a peppery flavor that complements the pesto.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or chives for a burst of freshness.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to enhance the flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Green Goddess Pesto Bowls

To make your Green Goddess Pesto Bowls even more delightful, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavors significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Blend Pesto Smoothly: Ensure your pea pesto is blended until smooth for the best texture.
• Experiment with Nuts: Try different nuts like almonds or cashews in your pesto for varied flavors.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your bowls right after preparing them for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Green Goddess Pesto Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Green Goddess Pesto Bowls can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Quinoa Salad: A light salad with cucumbers and tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory pesto bowls.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic olive oil complement the flavors perfectly.
4. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based dip balances out the spice from tandoori chickpeas.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn adds texture and sweetness to your meal.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with rice and veggies for a colorful side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Green Goddess Pesto Bowls from good to great. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a difference. Opt for organic vegetables and fresh herbs for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the veggies: Veggies should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on roasting times to maintain their texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors of each component in your bowl.
• Skipping the pesto prep: Making the pea pesto is crucial for flavor. Blend until smooth and adjust seasonings as needed for a well-rounded taste.
• Not garnishing properly: Garnishes like toasted pumpkin seeds or hemp seeds add texture and nutrition. Don’t forget them—they elevate your dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezing Green Goddess Pesto Bowls

• Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
• They can last up to 2 months; just label them with dates.

Reheating Green Goddess Pesto Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring regularly until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Green Goddess Pesto Bowls:

What makes Green Goddess Pesto Bowls special?

The unique combination of vibrant vegetables, crispy chickpeas, and creamy pea pesto creates a deliciously balanced meal packed with nutrients.

Can I customize my Green Goddess Pesto Bowls?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out veggies or use different nuts in your pesto to suit your taste preferences.

How do I make the pea pesto ahead of time?

You can prepare the pea pesto up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Are Green Goddess Pesto Bowls suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These bowls are perfect for meal prepping as they store well and maintain their flavor when reheated.

Final Thoughts

Green Goddess Pesto Bowls are not only nutritious but also versatile. You can customize them based on seasonal vegetables or personal preferences. Try this recipe today for a delightful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying!