Boost your energy with this millet and kale power bowl. Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients, this bowl combines the hearty texture of millet with fresh kale, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner, this power bowl is both satisfying and delicious. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• For the Millet:
  • 1 cup millet
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the Bowl:
  • 4 cups fresh kale, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
• For the Lemon Tahini Dressing:
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons water (more if needed for consistency)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Millet:
   • Rinse the millet under cold water to remove any dust or impurities.
   • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth and 1/4 teaspoon salt to a boil.
   • Add the rinsed millet, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the millet is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
   • Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Massage the Kale:
   • Place the chopped kale in a large bowl.
   • Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt.
   • Massage the kale with your hands for 2-3 minutes until it becomes tender and slightly wilted.
3. Prepare the Lemon Tahini Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, maple syrup or honey, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
   • Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
4. Assemble the Power Bowl:
   • Divide the cooked millet evenly among serving bowls.
   • Top with massaged kale, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, cucumber, avocado slices, red onion, and chickpeas.
   • Sprinkle with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
5. Dress the Bowl:
   • Drizzle the lemon tahini dressing generously over each bowl.
6. Serve:
   • Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or a poached egg for an extra protein boost.
• Different Greens: Substitute kale with spinach, arugula, or mixed greens.
• Make Ahead: Cook the millet and prepare the dressing in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and assemble the bowls just before serving.
• Spice Variation: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.

Enjoy this millet and kale power bowl as a nutritious and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of hearty millet, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing makes for a delightful and satisfying dish. Happy cooking!