St. Patrick’s Day Green Goddess Power Bowl: A Fresh, Nourishing Recipe for Renewal

St. Patrick’s Day reminds us that spring is just around the corner, inviting us to tap into the energy of renewal and transformation. This season of rebirth encourages us to shed what no longer serves us, just as nature awakens from its winter slumber. It's a time for both the earth and our bodies to rejuvenate, align with new intentions, and embrace growth. Spring offers a fresh start, an opportunity to focus on vitality, and to nourish ourselves with vibrant, nutrient-dense foods that fuel both body and mind.

St. Patrick's Day is not just about Irish heritage; it’s a celebration of kindness, forgiveness, faith, and community. Green, the color of nature and renewal, symbolizes our connection to the planet and each other. This holiday encourages us to find hope and strength in difficult times and reminds us of the power of unity. Nature and spirituality are deeply intertwined in Irish culture, urging us to nurture both our environment and our spirit.

At the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA), we embrace the spirit of renewal and growth through our holistic nutrition program, which teaches students how to nourish the body with vibrant foods that promote health and healing. Whether you're looking to deepen your understanding of nutrition, become a whole foods culinary specialist, or pursue a career in holistic wellness, our programs provide the tools to transform your life and the lives of others.

Celebrate this season of renewal with a Green Goddess Power Bowl, packed with nutrient-rich ingredients to support your transformation as you embrace the energetic shifts of spring. This dish is filled with leafy greens, healthy fats, plant-based protein, and detoxifying ingredients that align with the energy of growth and renewal.

Ingredients:

For the bowl:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa 
• 1/2 cup steamed broccoli 
• 1/2 cup roasted Brussels sprouts 
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds 
• 1/2 avocado
• 1 handful fresh spinach or kale (massage kale in a little oil to soften it)
• 1/4 cup peas
  
  

For the Green Goddess Dressing:

• 1/2 cup cashews
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 avocado
• 3 TBSP fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon spirulina powder
• 1/2 C water
• 1/2 TSP salt
• ¼ TSP pepper

Instructions:

1. 1) Soak the cashews: Soak cashews in warm water for at least an hour. Drain and rinse.
2. 2) Prepare the quinoa:

•      - Bring to a boil, cover, reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.
•      - Remove from the heat and let it sit, covered for 10 more minutes.
•      - Fluff with a fork

1. 3) Roast the Brussels sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F for 20 minutes or until crispy.
2. 4) Steam the broccoli: Steam broccoli for about 5-7 minutes until bright green and tender.
3. 5) Make the dressing: In a blender, combine soaked cashews, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, avocado, parsley, spirulina, water, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust as needed – more lemon for acidity, salt for flavor, pepper for spice, or water if too thick.
4. 6) Assemble the bowl: In a large bowl, layer quinoa, roasted Brussels sprouts, steamed broccoli, peas, fresh greens, and avocado. Drizzle generously with the green goddess dressing.
5. 7) Top with seeds: Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top for a satisfying crunch and extra nutritional boost.

This nutrient-dense, vibrant dish is a celebration of spring energy and the fresh start that comes with it. Enjoy this bowl on St. Patrick's Day to honor your body and your wellness journey, and learn more about how you can nourish yourself and others by exploring SWIHA’s nutrition program.