Sitting down to a meal that’s both tasty and healthy is very comforting. After a long day, nothing beats the mix of warm wild rice, marinated chicken, and roasted veggies. This Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl recipe is a game-changer for those who love vibrant, healthy meals.
This homemade Sweetgreen bowl lets you make it your own. Imagine a salad with crunchy apples, creamy goat cheese, and nutritional yeast. It’s all held together by a balsamic dressing that’s amazing with every bite.
Whether you’re new to meal prepping or a pro, this guide has you covered. You’ll learn to make one of Sweetgreen’s favorite dishes at home. It’s easy to follow, making your weeknight dinners fun and simple.
Key Takeaways
- The Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl recipe is a nutritious and flavorful meal perfect for any day.
- This homemade Sweetgreen bowl can be tailored to individual tastes.
- Learn to replicate a variety of textures and flavors, from marinated chicken to umami-rich nutritional yeast.
- This guide provides comprehensive, easy-to-follow instructions perfect for meal prepping.
- The balsamic dressing ties all the ingredients together, creating a harmonious blend.
Introduction to the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl
The Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl is a key dish from Sweetgreen, a fast-casual chain. It focuses on fresh, healthy ingredients. Since 2007, Sweetgreen has been a top choice for those who love vibrant salads and nourishing bowls.
This bowl is great for those who care about their health. It has greens, proteins, and carbs for a balanced meal. The recipe is famous for its savory umami flavor, thanks to ingredients like nutritional yeast and soy sauce.
The balsamic vinaigrette in the bowl is a highlight. It’s made with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey. Sweetgreen’s vinaigrette is a mix of sunflower oil, balsamic vinegar, and more, creating a tasty balance.
The recipe lets you pick your favorite ingredients. You can choose wild rice or different proteins like chicken. For veggies, you can use sweet potatoes or other options like butternut squash.
Apples like Honeycrisp and goat cheese add to the dish’s flavor. You can also add almonds for extra texture. This makes the recipe fun for everyone, fitting different tastes and needs.
Ingredients Needed for Your Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl
To make your homemade Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl, you need whole food ingredients. They add rich flavors and nutrients to your meal. Here are the main ingredients:
- Kale: This green is full of vitamins A, C, and K. Massaging the kale makes it taste better and feel softer.
- Wild Rice: It’s a gluten-free grain that adds fiber and carbs. This makes your meal more nutritious.
- Chicken Thighs: Marinated chicken thighs are the protein part. They have about 36 grams of protein per serving.
- Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes are full of vitamins and minerals like vitamin A and potassium.
- Brussels Sprouts: These sprouts are rich in vitamin C and K. They add crunch and texture to your bowl.
A creamy balsamic dressing made with balsamic vinegar, almond butter, salt, and water makes the dish taste better. You can change ingredients like kale for arugula or use different nuts and dressings to fit your diet.
For more flavors and textures, consider:
- Apples: They add sweetness and extra fiber.
- Goat Cheese: It adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- Nuts, such as Pecans or Almonds: They add crunch and healthy fats.
Making these bowls at home saves money and lets you customize. You can use the freshest ingredients. Marinating chicken for 30 minutes to 8 hours makes it taste better. Preparing ahead of time also saves cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by marinating the chicken in coconut aminos and spices. This step makes the chicken taste better. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
While the chicken marinates, roast the vegetables. Preheat your oven to 400˚F. Place sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
Then, cook your rice. Sprouted brown rice is a good choice for health reasons. To cook wild rice, boil water, add rice, and cook for 45-50 minutes. Let it sit for 10 minutes after cooking.
After marinating, roast the chicken at 400˚F for 12-20 minutes. Make sure it’s 165˚F inside. Let it rest, then cut it into pieces.
While everything cooks, make the dressing. Mix ½ cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.
“Roasting the Vegetables and marinating the chicken adequately enhances the overall flavor profile of the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl.”
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes.
- Roast the chicken at 400˚F for 12-20 minutes.
- Roast sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts at 400˚F for 20-25 minutes.
- Cook wild rice for 45-50 minutes, then let it sit covered for 10 more minutes.
- Whisk together dressing ingredients until smooth.
Now, you have everything ready. You have roasted chicken, vegetables, cooked rice, and dressing. You’re ready to make your Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl.
Assembling the Harvest Bowl
Building your *homemade sweetgreen bowl* is fun and rewarding. Start with six cups of shredded kale as the base. Then, spread one cup of cooked wild rice blend over the greens.
Place roasted veggies like cubed sweet potato and Brussels sprouts around the bowl. Make sure they’re evenly spread for a balanced *nutritious salad recipe*.
Add marinated chicken slices or farro for a vegetarian option. Sprinkle four ounces of goat cheese, diced apple, and chopped almonds on top. These add crunch and flavor.
Drizzle homemade balsamic dressing just before serving. It’s made from balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and maple syrup. This keeps all the ingredients fresh.
Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl Recipe
Making the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl at home is fun and rewarding. This recipe shows you how to make a tasty and nutritious salad recipe. It’s as good to eat as it is to look at.
- Marinate the chicken: Start with 1 lb of chicken breast. Butterfly the breasts into thin slices and marinate in a mixture of spices, olive oil, and a touch of maple syrup for at least 30 minutes.
- Roast the vegetables: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Trim and halve 1 lb of Brussels sprouts, and cut 1 medium sweet potato into 1″ cubes. Toss these with avocado oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Roast for 20-30 minutes until they are tender and golden brown.
- Cook the wild rice: Follow package instructions for cooking 1 cup of a wild rice blend, which should take about 45 minutes.
- Sauté the kale: Heat a bit of avocado oil in a pan and sauté 6 heaping cups of shredded kale (approximately 6 oz) until wilted. This should take around 5 minutes.
Once all ingredients are prepared
It’s time to assemble your homemade sweetgreen bowl. Start with cooked wild rice and sautéed kale. Then, arrange the roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes evenly.
Thinly slice one medium apple and scatter the slices over the bowl, adding a refreshing crunch. Sprinkle 4 oz of goat cheese and ⅓ cup of chopped almonds for a creamy texture and additional protein.
For the homemade vinaigrette, combine 6 tbsp of olive oil, ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, and a clove of minced garlic. Drizzle this over the bowl to enhance flavor. Season the bowl with a pinch of cinnamon and five-spice powder to add depth to the taste profile.
| Measurement | Ingredient | Prep Time | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 lb | Chicken breast | 30 min marinating | 4-5 min per side |
| 1 lb | Brussels sprouts | 10 min trimming | 20-30 min roasting |
| 1 medium | Sweet potato | 10 min dicing | 20-30 min roasting |
| 6 cups | Shredded kale | 5 min shredding | 5 min sautéing |
| 1 cup | Cooked wild rice blend | 5 min prep | 45 min cooking |
| 1 medium | Apple | 2 min slicing | – |
| 4 oz | Goat cheese | Crumbles | – |
| ⅓ cup | Chopped almonds | 2 min chopping | – |
Now, your flavorful and nutritious Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl is ready to be enjoyed. This homemade sweetgreen bowl is perfect for a wholesome meal at any time of day. It gives you a balanced mix of vegetables, proteins, and grains.
Why Marinating the Chicken is Essential
Marinating the chicken is key in the sweetgreen harvest bowl recipe. It makes the meat taste better and feel softer. The marinade has olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and spices like cumin and coriander.
Marinating breaks down chicken proteins, making it tender and juicy. This is crucial for a healthy grain bowl that tastes like Sweetgreen’s. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Here’s a quick checklist of the marinade ingredients:
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Kosher salt
- Cumin
- Coriander
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes
Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for 12-16 minutes. It should reach 165˚F inside. This method cooks the chicken well and keeps flavors locked in.
This method is also flexible. You can use tofu or chicken thighs instead of breasts. For a healthy bowl, choose boneless and skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and are easy to cook.
Tips for Perfectly Roasting Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts
Roasting sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts is key for a great nutritious salad recipe. The secret is in the details. Make sure the veggies are cut the same, tossed in good oil, and seasoned well.
Start by cutting your sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts into the same size pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Then, toss them in 3 tablespoons of avocado oil. This oil tastes great and can handle high heat.
Put the veggies on a baking sheet in one layer. This stops them from steaming and helps them brown. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Heat your oven to 425°F and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway.
This method is perfect for a quick easy weeknight dinner. It also makes your whole food ingredients taste better.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the nutritional value and preparation tips:
| Item | Preparation Time | Calories Per Serving | Protein | Healthy Fats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet Potatoes | 10 mins | 90 | 2g | 0g |
| Brussels Sprouts | 15 mins | 38 | 3g | 0g |
| Tossing in Avocado Oil | – | 120 | 0g | 14g |
| Total (Per Serving) | 25-30 mins | 248 | 5g | 14g |
By following these tips, making a nutritious salad recipe with roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts is easy. This method not only boosts flavor but also fits well into a healthy easy weeknight dinner.
Nutritional Benefits of the Harvest Bowl Ingredients
The Harvest Bowl is a nutritious salad recipe full of health benefits. It has healthy grains, protein, and colorful veggies. This dish is great for your health and tastes amazing.
This bowl is high in protein. With 2 cups of rotisserie chicken, it has lots of protein. Even without chicken, it still has 13.2g of protein from pecans and goat cheese.
The bowl also has lots of complex carbs. These come from 1 cup of farro and 2 cups of butternut squash. These carbs give you energy all day, unlike simple carbs.
It has many veggies like Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes. These veggies are full of fiber, which is good for your digestion. They also help you feel full, which can help with weight.
The bowl is also full of vitamins and minerals. Farro has vitamins A and E, iron, and magnesium. Apples and pomegranates add more vitamins, like vitamin C and antioxidants.
Here’s a detailed look at the nutritional value per serving of the Harvest Bowl:
| Nutrient | With Chicken | Without Chicken |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 535 | 541 |
| Protein Content | 28g | 13.2g |
| Fat | 30g | 29.4g |
| Carbs | 41g | 63.2g |
| Fiber | 8g | 8g |
| Sugar | 14g | 14g |
The Harvest Bowl is a great example of a healthy grain bowl. It’s perfect for boosting your protein content or just enjoying a balanced meal.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Looking for an easy weeknight dinner? The Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl is a great choice. Preparing ingredients ahead keeps them fresh and convenient. Here are some meal prep tips to keep your Harvest Bowl ready:
- Cook wild rice blend early and store it in a sealed container. It stays fresh for up to 5 days.
- Roast sweet potatoes and delicata squash at 400 degrees F for 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate them in separate containers.
- Prepare chicken breasts and cool them before storing in a sealed container. For a vegetarian option, use crispy chickpeas or tofu.
- Wash, dry, and store kale in a separate container with a paper towel to keep it dry.
- Assemble each Harvest Bowl just before eating to keep it fresh.
Here’s a handy table showing how long each part lasts in the fridge:
| Ingredient | Storage Duration |
|---|---|
| Wild Rice Blend | 4-5 days |
| Roasted Sweet Potatoes | 4-5 days |
| Chicken (or Vegetarian Substitute) | 3-4 days |
| Dressings (e.g., Balsamic) | Up to 1 week |
| Fresh Greens (Kale) | 3-4 days |
These tips make meal prep easy and keep your Harvest Bowls fresh. Enjoy a delicious easy weeknight dinner without the stress.
Variations and Substitutions for Different Diets
The Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl is loved for its flexibility. It suits many diets, from vegetarian options to special plans. You can change your bowl in many ways to fit your needs.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add chickpeas or tofu. This keeps your meal protein-rich.
- Paleo and AIP Modifications: Use cauliflower rice instead of brown rice. Avoid nuts and seeds for these diets.
- Gluten-Free Adjustments: Check that sauces and dressings are gluten-free. This keeps your bowl safe for gluten sensitivities.
- Protein Substitutions: Try salmon, beef, turkey, or shrimp for new tastes and nutrients.
Want to swap grains? Try quinoa or farro for different textures and tastes. Swap sweet potatoes for butternut squash for a new flavor.
| Diet Type | Main Substitutions |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian Option | Chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken |
| Paleo and AIP | Cauliflower rice instead of brown rice, omit nuts and seeds |
| Gluten-Free | Ensure all processed ingredients are gluten-free |
The Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl is super customizable. It’s great for any diet. With these tweaks, you can enjoy a tasty, healthy meal that fits your diet.
Conclusion
The Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl is a perfect example of a healthy grain bowl. With our recipe, you can make a tasty and nutritious meal. It’s just like what Sweetgreen offers in their 140 locations across 13 states.
This bowl has a great mix of protein, healthy fats, and nutrients. It’s perfect for your taste and health goals.
Our guide shows you how to make this popular dish. It also talks about marinating chicken and roasting veggies. You can even change the recipe to fit your diet.
Adding the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl to your meals is a smart choice. It’s full of 765 calories, 41g of fat, and 38g of protein. It’s a filling and healthy option.
This bowl makes cooking easier and makes your meals more exciting. It’s a great addition to your meal plan.
FAQ
What are the main ingredients for a Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl?
A Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl has baby kale, roasted sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts. It also has marinated chicken thighs. The dressing is made with almond butter and balsamic vinegar.
How do I marinate the chicken for the Harvest Bowl?
Marinate chicken thighs with coconut aminos, garlic powder, and spices. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to get more flavor.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes, you can make it vegetarian by using chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken. It’s a tasty and healthy option.
What dressing is used for the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl?
The dressing is a creamy balsamic mix. It’s made by blending balsamic vinegar and almond butter until smooth. This dressing adds a rich and tangy taste.
How do I roast the sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts?
Coat sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts with oil and seasonings. Roast them in a 400°F oven for 25-30 minutes. They should be tender and golden.
Can I make gluten-free adjustments to the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free. Just make sure all sauces and ingredients are gluten-free.
What are the nutritional benefits of the Harvest Bowl ingredients?
The Harvest Bowl is very nutritious. It has protein from chicken and pecans. It also has complex carbs from sweet potatoes and brown rice. Plus, it has vitamins and minerals from baby kale and apples.
How do I store leftover Harvest Bowl components?
Store leftovers in separate containers in the fridge. The dressing can last up to a week in a jar. Assemble the bowl just before eating for the best taste.
Are there Paleo or AIP diet options for this recipe?
For Paleo or AIP diets, use cauliflower rice instead of grains. Omit nuts and seeds. Use compliant sauces and seasonings.
What types of grains can I use in place of rice?
You can use quinoa, farro, or sprouted brown rice. These grains are high in fiber and protein.
How can I prepare a Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl in advance for an easy weeknight dinner?
Prepare chicken, roast veggies, cook grains, and make dressing ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the bowl just before eating for a quick and easy dinner.
Source Links
- SWEETGREEN INSPIRED HARVEST BOWL CHICKPEA SALAD – https://jenneatsgoood.com/sweetgreen-inspired-harvest-bowl-chickpea-salad/
- Vegetarian Harvest Bowl (Sweetgreen Copycat) – https://www.gastronotherapy.com/vegetarian-harvest-bowl-sweetgreen-copycat/
1 thought on “Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl Recipe: Flavorful & Nutritious Meal”
Comments are closed.