Fireside Low Carb Grain Bowl (Printable)

Nourishing low-carb bowl with roasted vegetables, flavorful cauliflower rice, protein, and zesty dressing in every bite.

# List of ingredients:

→ Low-Carb Grains

01 - 1 large head cauliflower, riced (about 4 cups)
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Roasted Vegetables

05 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
06 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
07 - 1 small red onion, sliced
08 - 1 cup cremini mushrooms, quartered
09 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
10 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Protein & Toppings

13 - 1 cup cooked shredded rotisserie chicken (optional; substitute with chickpeas for vegan)
14 - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional; omit for vegan)
15 - 1 avocado, sliced
16 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
17 - 2 tablespoons toasted pumpkin seeds

→ Dressing

18 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
19 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
20 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
21 - 1 clove garlic, minced
22 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
02 - On a large baking sheet, toss zucchini, red bell pepper, onion, and cremini mushrooms with olive oil, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Spread in a single layer and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
03 - Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the riced cauliflower and season with sea salt and black pepper. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until tender but still firm. Remove from heat and set aside.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is emulsified.
05 - Divide the cauliflower rice evenly among four bowls. Top each with the roasted vegetables, shredded chicken or chickpeas, avocado slices, feta cheese if using, chopped parsley, and toasted pumpkin seeds.
06 - Drizzle the prepared dressing over each bowl immediately before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It brings together robust flavors and textures that feel surprisingly satisfying for a low carb dish
  • The roasted vegetables caramelize beautifully, making every bite a comforting experience
02 -
  • Don&t overcook the cauliflower rice or it gets mushy and loses its pleasantly firm texture
  • Roasting the vegetables at a high heat brings out their sweetness and adds layers of flavor you otherwise wouldn&t get
03 -
  • Use fresh herbs in the topping to brighten the whole bowl and upgrade the flavor profile
  • Roast vegetables in a single layer without crowding to get that beautiful caramelization