Kim Chaisson
With so many fresh, seasonal ingredients to choose from this summer, there’s nothing better to pair all of those vegetables and proteins with than hearty whole grains. With this in mind, one local Assisted Living community has rolled out an innovative addition to their dining experience, a café where residents can build their own grain bowls, choosing from a wide variety of whole grains, proteins, greens, and more! At Farmington Station (located in Farmington, CT), these customizable, brain healthy meals are packed with ingredients known to boost cognitive and heart health while strengthening the immune system.
Now, you can try a few of these recipes at home! Remember, these are endlessly customizable. You can swap out farro for quinoa, chickpeas for lentils, chicken for shrimp, and add the vegetables and greens of your choosing! The recipes below are suggestions– feel free to make them your own!
Spiced Chickpea Grain Bowl
This recipe is the perfect plant-based meal that still has plenty of protein from the chickpeas! The garbanzo beans are seasoned with plenty of warm spices and lime juice for a meal so flavorful you won’t miss the meat.
Mediterranean Chicken Grain Bowl
Enjoy the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean with this chicken grain bowl, topped with olives, feta, tomatoes and plenty of olive oil for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Salmon Grain Bowl
This salmon grain bowl is nutrient rich and includes chopped nuts for an extra crunch! You’ll roast the fish until the skin is crispy and add a lemon-olive oil dressing for a final touch. Pro tip: swap with smoked salmon for a lighter meal!
Farro & Quinoa Grain Bowl with Arugula
Simple yet delicious, this vegetarian grain bowl has it all, from crunchy red onions and cucumbers, to protein-packed farro and quinoa, to nutritious arugula and a sweet balsamic glaze. Enjoy!
Check out our wide variety of Brain Healthy Cooking recipes for breakfast, lunch, appetizers, entrées, and desserts for any time of year!