Green Goddess Bowls with Farro & Pepita Lime Sauce

There’s something delightfully refreshing about a bowl brimming with vibrant greens, hearty grains, and a zesty dressing that brings everything together. My Green Goddess Bowls with Farro & Pepita Lime Sauce are just that—an ode to fresh, wholesome ingredients that create a meal bursting with flavor and nutrition. This dish is not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into why this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen!

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe ticks all the boxes for a perfect meal: it’s nourishing, delicious, and versatile. The farro provides a chewy texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the greens and chickpeas, making it a complete meal. The star of the show is undoubtedly the Pepita Lime Sauce, which brings a zingy brightness that elevates the entire bowl. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or enjoying a cozy dinner, these Green Goddess Bowls fit the bill!

Ingredient Checklist

To create these delicious Green Goddess Bowls with Farro & Pepita Lime Sauce, gather the following ingredients:

• ¾ cup toasted pumpkin seeds, soaked for at least 1 hour (plus extra for garnish)
• ¾ cup flat leaf parsley or cilantro leaves, lightly packed
• 1 clove garlic, peeled
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon agave nectar or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon light miso
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
• ¾ cup water, plus extra
• 1 cup whole farro
• 1 bunch broccoli, cut into small florets
• 1 bunch kale, any kind, stemmed and chopped
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (1 15oz can, drained and rinsed)

Equipment Breakdown

To make these Green Goddess Bowls, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Blender or Food Processor: For creating the Pepita Lime Sauce.
• Medium Pot: To cook the farro.
• Steamer Basket or Pot: For steaming the broccoli and kale.
• Mixing Bowls: To combine ingredients and assemble your bowls.

Green Goddess Bowls with Farro & Pepita Lime Sauce: From Prep to Plate

Preparing these Green Goddess Bowls is not only easy but also fun. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome!

Step 1: Soak the Pumpkin Seeds

Start by soaking the pumpkin seeds in water for at least 1 hour. This will help soften them and enhance their flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Farro

In a medium pot, combine 1 cup of farro with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Green Goddess Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked pumpkin seeds, parsley or cilantro, garlic, cumin, agave nectar or maple syrup, light miso, lime zest, lime juice, and ¾ cup of water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with additional water if needed. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Steam the Greens

In a steamer basket over boiling water, steam the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until bright green and tender. Add the chopped kale to the basket and steam for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked farro, steamed broccoli, kale, and chickpeas. Toss gently to combine.

Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls

To serve, divide the farro and vegetable mixture into bowls. Drizzle generously with the Pepita Lime Sauce and garnish with extra toasted pumpkin seeds. Enjoy your Green Goddess Bowls with Farro & Pepita Lime Sauce while they’re fresh!

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

This recipe can easily be adapted to suit the seasons or special occasions:

• In the spring, add fresh peas or asparagus for a seasonal twist.
• In the fall, roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash can add a lovely sweetness.
• During summer, consider incorporating grilled corn or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
• For winter gatherings, serve warm bowls with a sprinkle of red chili flakes for a bit of heat.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making your Green Goddess Bowls:

• Not soaking the pumpkin seeds: Soaking enhances the creaminess of the sauce. If you forget, you can use raw seeds but the texture will be different.
• Overcooking the farro: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Farro should be chewy but not mushy.
• Too thick sauce: If your Pepita Lime Sauce is too thick, add a bit more water until you reach the desired consistency.
• Underseasoned greens: Don’t forget to season your vegetables as you cook them; a little salt can elevate their flavor.

Save It for Later

If you find yourself with leftovers, here’s how to store your Green Goddess Bowls:

• Store the farro and vegetable mixture separately from the Pepita Lime Sauce to keep everything fresh.
• Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• To reheat, warm the farro and veggies in the microwave or on the stovetop, then drizzle with the sauce before serving.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use quinoa instead of farro?

Absolutely! Quinoa is a great gluten-free alternative and cooks much faster than farro. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I substitute for miso?

If you don’t have miso on hand, you can use tahini or a small amount of soy sauce to achieve a similar umami flavor.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes! All the ingredients in the Green Goddess Bowls are plant-based and vegan-friendly.

How can I add more protein to this dish?

Consider adding tofu, tempeh, or extra chickpeas to boost the protein content. Grilled chicken or shrimp can also be great additions for non-vegetarians.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love this recipe, you’ll enjoy these additional one-pan meal ideas:

• One-Pan Chickpea Curry
• Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl
• Mexican Stuffed Peppers
• Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the ingredients and knowledge, it’s time to make your own Green Goddess Bowls with Farro & Pepita Lime Sauce! Enjoy the process of creating this wholesome meal, and don’t forget to share your culinary adventure with friends and family. Each bowl is not only a feast for the eyes but a nourishing delight for the body. Happy cooking!