What's For Dinner: 'Caprese Grain Bowl

July is here, isn't it? The days are long and warm, bursting with activity for some, and for others, a hopeful search for a cool, shady spot to simply be. I find myself somewhere in the middle. There's a particular kind of energy that comes with summer – sometimes invigorating, sometimes just plain draining when you're someone who recharges best in solitude. It’s a bit like trying to hold onto the fleeting beauty of a summer sunset; you want to soak it all in, but also know that rest is coming.

During these busy-but-beautiful weeks, my thoughts often turn to meals that offer a breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively. I don't want to spend ages over a hot stove, nor do I want anything too heavy that will make the evening feel even more sluggish. What I really long for is something that feels both nourishing for the body and kind to the soul – a thoughtful assembly of simple things that points back to the goodness around us.

And that, my friends, is exactly where the Caprese Grain Bowl steps in. It's a meal that feels like a little act of grace. It asks for fresh, ripe ingredients, a bit of layering, and then rewards you with a symphony of flavors that manages to be both bright and comforting. It's a reminder that even in the midst of summer's hustle, peace can be found in the small acts, like preparing a good meal and giving thanks for the simple abundance we're given.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked grain of your choice (farro, quinoa, brown rice, or a mix – I often go for farro for its chew!)
• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, a small ball sliced or torn, or ciliegine (small balls) halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1-2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein

Instructions

1. If you haven't already, cook your chosen grain according to package directions. Let it cool slightly, or completely for a truly refreshing bowl.
2. While the grain cools, prepare your tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
3. In a bowl, combine the cooled grain, halved tomatoes, mozzarella, and most of the fresh basil.
4. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Add salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Gently toss everything together until just combined. You want to keep the integrity of those beautiful Caprese elements.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining basil. If you’re adding protein, nestle it right on top or mix it in.

There's something wonderfully satisfying about a meal that comes together with such ease yet feels so complete. It doesn't shout for attention, but rather offers a steady, calm presence on the table. Living in a world that often feels loud and demanding, I cherish these moments of thoughtful simplicity. It's in these small, everyday acts of creating and nourishing that I often feel most connected to the rhythm of life and the quiet blessings all around.

So, as July continues its warm stride, taking us deeper into the season, what simple joys are bringing nourishment to your soul these days?

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Photo by Unsplash on Unsplash

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