Pantry Grain Bowl

Step 1

Start with a hearty base of grains or cooked root vegetables or a mix of both.

Step 2

Add a generous serving of greens or other vegetables, cooked or raw, and a protein of some kind, anything from tempeh to a hard-cooked egg to chicken, lentils, black beans or a scoop of tasty hummus.

Step 3

Consider adding a little good fat: an avocado, a homemade dressing or just a splash of extra-virgin olive oil.

Step 4

Bump up the flavor and texture by experimenting with savory twists--a splash of tamari or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, perhaps a smattering of pepitas or sunflower seeds or any other crunch. It's up to you.

Step 5

In a blender, combine the garlic, mustard, vinegar, oil, salt and scallions and blend until smooth. The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 1/2 weeks.