Looking for a healthy, filling salad that's easy to make and doesn't require any dressing? Try this Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl! One serving (1 bowl) contains approximately 250 calories, making it a great option for lunch or dinner.

This salad is packed with nutritious ingredients, including brown rice, which offers a good source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals. The veggies also provide a range of vitamins, including vitamins A, C, and K.

In this article, we'll dive into the health benefits of this dish, how to create it at home, some delicious variations, and serving suggestions.

Calories in Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl with no dressing

One serving (1 bowl) of this salad contains approximately 250 calories. However, the exact calorie count may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the size of the bowl. It's worth noting that this salad is a great option for those looking to maintain or lose weight, as it's low in calories but high in satiety due to the high fiber content in brown rice and vegetables. Additionally, omitting dressing can save a significant number of calories without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Instead, try adding some flavorful toppings or pairing with a low-calorie dressing.

Main ingredient of Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl

The star ingredient of this salad is brown rice, a nutritious whole grain that provides fiber, protein, and essential minerals. Additionally, the veggies used in this dish are equally important – they provide a range of vitamins and minerals while adding flavor, texture, and color. Some popular options include diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. Overall, the combination of whole grains and vegetables in this salad makes it a great choice for any meal of the day.

Health benefits of Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl

This salad offers a range of health benefits, thanks to its nutritious ingredients. Firstly, brown rice provides a filling source of dietary fiber, which can support digestive health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The veggies in this dish also provide a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote overall health and wellbeing. For example, bell peppers are a good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health, while carrots provide vitamin A, which is essential for vision and immune health. Overall, this salad is a great way to fuel your body with nutrient-dense, whole foods that support health and wellness.

Vitamins and nutrients of Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl

This salad is packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals, including: - Vitamin C from bell peppers and tomatoes, which supports immune function and skin health. - Vitamin A from carrots, which is important for vision and immune health. The salad also provides a range of essential minerals, including iron, potassium, and magnesium, which support various bodily functions such as energy production and bone health.

How to make Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl at home

To make this salad, start by cooking 1/2 cup of brown rice according to package directions. Then, prepare a variety of veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, and chop into bite-sized pieces. Combine the cooked brown rice and chopped veggies in a large bowl, toss to mix evenly, and enjoy! Feel free to add some tasty toppings such as fresh herbs, roasted nuts or seeds, or your favorite protein such as grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas. Remember, the beauty of this salad is you don't need dressing to make it delicious - simply season with some salt and pepper, or dress with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Variations of Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl recipe

While this salad is delicious on its own, there are many ways to switch up the recipe and add variety. Try any of these tasty variations: - Mediterranean-style: add some feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil - Mexican-style: use black beans instead of brown rice, add some avocado, and a dollop of sour cream.

Best dressing to pair with Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl

While this salad is delicious on its own, you may find that you want to add a little extra flavor or moisture. If you're looking for a light dressing that won't overpower the flavors of the veggies and rice, consider one of these options: - Lemon vinaigrette: whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey, and dijon mustard for a zesty dressing that complements the natural flavors of the salad. - Tahini dressing: whisk together tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and water for a creamy, nutty dressing that pairs well with the earthy flavors of the brown rice.

Toppings that complement Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl

While this salad is delicious on its own, adding some tasty toppings can take it to the next level. Try any of these flavorful options: - Fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley - Roasted nuts or seeds, such as almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch and healthy fats.

Serving suggestions for Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl

Enjoy this salad as a healthy lunch or dinner option, or serve as a side dish alongside your favorite protein such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It's also a great option for a party or potluck, as it's easy to make in bulk and can be enjoyed by a variety of dietary preferences. Simply prep the salad and toppings ahead of time, and assemble just before serving for a fresh and delicious dish.

Other salads similar to Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl

If you enjoyed this Hearty Veggie & Brown Rice Salad Bowl, you might also enjoy these similar salads: - Quinoa and Veggie Salad: a similar dish made with protein-packed quinoa and a variety of colorful veggies. - Greek Salad: a classic salad featuring crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, dressed with a simple vinaigrette.