Joe Roshkovsky
Delightful Weekend Wakame and Quinoa Nourish Bowl: A Fusion of Health and Flavor
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This nutritiously indulgent dish hails from the heart of wellness corners in Japan, where wakame, a mineral-rich seaweed, has been cherished for centuries. Merged with quinoa, a superfood from South America renowned for its complete protein profile, this bowl brings together the best of both worlds. It’s a dish that tells a story of global culinary fusion and is perfect for leisurely weekend lunches or a refreshing dinner option to recharge after a busy day. The flavors are a harmonious blend of umami from the wakame, the nutty undertones of quinoa, and a medley of vibrant vegetables dressed in a tangy sesame soy vinaigrette. This bowl is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of health and taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon dried wakame seaweed
– 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup edamame, shelled and cooked
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon honey or agave nectar
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
– 2 green onions, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Quinoa:
– Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer.
– In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the quinoa and a pinch of salt.
– Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.
– Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Wakame:
– Place the dried wakame in a bowl and cover with a cup of hot water. Allow it to soak for about 10 minutes or until rehydrated.
– Drain and gently squeeze out excess water. Chop into bite-sized pieces if needed.
3. Make the Dressing:
– In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey or agave nectar until combined.
4. Compose the Nourish Bowl:
– In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, wakame, cucumber, carrot, red bell pepper, edamame, and green onions.
– Drizzle the sesame soy dressing over the mixture and gently toss to combine and evenly coat the ingredients.
5. Serve:
– Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
– Serve the nourish bowl at room temperature or chilled, perfect for a nutritious meal.
Cooking Tips:
– Wakame: Ensure the wakame is thoroughly soaked and rehydrated for the best texture. If it’s your first time using it, remember that a little goes a long way when dried.
– Quinoa: Fluffing the quinoa with a fork after cooking helps break up the grains and keeps them from clumping together.
Serving Suggestions:
This nourish bowl is best paired with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing glass of iced green tea. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled tofu or broiled salmon. Enjoy this dish outdoors on a sunny weekend afternoon for the ultimate comfort experience.
Nutrition Note:
Packed with protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, this dish offers a well-balanced, nutritious meal that supports digestive health and boosts energy levels, perfect for refueling after a workout or a busy day.
