Festive Macro Bowl with Creamy Miso Tahini Gravy

Festive & Nutritious Holiday Macro Bowl with Creamy Miso Tahini Gravy (Vegan)

Discover the ultimate Holiday Macro Bowl featuring a rich miso tahini gravy – perfect for celebrating the season or enjoying a wholesome, plant-based meal any time you desire a hearty and nourishing blend of whole foods.

Holiday Macro Bowl served in white bowl with fork and miso tahini

The holiday season is truly magical, filled with a vibrant spirit of joy, connection, and, of course, incredible food. I find myself buzzing with excitement for the holidays, often enjoying the anticipation almost as much as the festive day itself. This particular feeling of joyful expectation reminds me of the delicious journey that led to creating this magnificent Holiday Macro Bowl, a recipe I initially envisioned around Thanksgiving and perfected for Christmas.

While many holiday tables traditionally feature grand, meat-centric mains, I’m passionate about showcasing just how incredibly festive and satisfying plant-based dishes can be. This recipe is my answer to the craving for a hearty, wholesome meal that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on any holiday spread. It’s a testament to the fact that nourishing, whole foods can be the star of your celebratory feast, offering vibrant flavors and essential nutrients without compromising on the indulgent spirit of the season.

Join me as I blend a medley of my favorite ingredients to craft a truly exceptional plant-based bowl. It’s brimming with plant-based protein, an array of seasonal vegetables, and charming holiday garnishes. I’ve affectionately named it the **Holiday Macro Bowl with Miso Tahini Gravy**, and I’m confident it will become a cherished new tradition at your table, loved by vegans and non-vegans alike for its incredible taste and impressive presentation.

ingredients for holiday macro bowl

Crafting Your Holiday Macro Bowl: A Step-by-Step Guide

It’s a culinary paradox: why do we rarely see holiday meals served in the delightful, convenient style of a bowl? In my experience, most of my meticulously arranged meals eventually gravitate towards a “bowled” presentation anyway. Those carefully segregated vegetables inevitably break free from their boundaries, transforming into a beautiful, colorful, and utterly delicious medley. This Holiday Macro Bowl with Miso Tahini Gravy embraces that joyful chaos from the very start, designed to be a harmonious blend of textures and flavors in every spoonful.

The beauty of a macro bowl lies in its balanced approach to nutrition, combining carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, and an abundance of micronutrients in one satisfying dish. For this festive creation, all you need is an inviting empty bowl, about 30 minutes of active preparation time, and the pure, childlike excitement that comes with embarking on a delightful new holiday culinary tradition. We’ll guide you through each component, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable cooking experience that culminates in a truly impressive and nourishing meal.

First, we’ll perfectly roast sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts until they’re tender and caramelized, bringing out their natural sweetness and a hint of savory depth. Simultaneously, a robust grain blend of sprouted lentils, wild rice, and quinoa forms our wholesome foundation, cooked to perfection to provide essential fiber and protein. The star of the show, a creamy Miso Tahini Gravy, will be whisked together, offering a rich, umami-packed dressing that ties all the vibrant elements of the bowl together. Finally, we’ll add a festive touch with toasted walnuts and tart cranberries, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that truly embodies the spirit of the holidays in every bite.

roasted brussels sprouts and sweet potato in pan

Endless Customization: Swaps and Substitutions for Your Macro Bowl

One of the most appealing aspects of this Holiday Macro Bowl is its incredible adaptability. It serves as a versatile canvas, inviting you to unleash your creativity and tailor it to your personal preferences, dietary needs, or whatever seasonal ingredients you have on hand. My chosen combination for this festive version includes protein-rich lentils, perfectly roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, brightly colored dried cranberries, and crunchy toasted walnuts, all harmoniously united by that irresistible sweet and savory miso tahini dressing. This particular blend delivers a robust flavor profile and a satisfying mix of textures, making it a complete and fulfilling meal.

However, the possibilities for customization are truly limitless. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different grains; consider nutrient-dense quinoa, fluffy brown rice, earthy farro, or even a mix of your favorite ancient grains for the base. For roasted vegetables, feel free to swap or add broccoli florets, cauliflower, carrots, parsnips, or even butternut squash for an equally delightful and seasonal twist. If you’re looking for alternative protein sources, chickpeas, black beans, or even baked tofu or tempeh would integrate beautifully. And when it comes to toppings, let your imagination run wild! Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, fresh herbs like parsley or dill, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or a dash of chili flakes for a gentle kick can elevate your bowl even further.

Beyond creating new variations, this recipe is also an ingenious solution for transforming your holiday leftovers. Instead of serving them in their traditional format, simply arrange any remaining roasted vegetables, grains, or plant-based proteins on a fresh bed of greens or grains. A generous splash of the miso tahini gravy and a sprinkle of fresh scallions can revive and re-energize these ingredients, making them taste even better than they did the first time around. It’s a fantastic way to minimize food waste and extend the enjoyment of your festive cooking. Just saying – you might find yourself looking forward to the leftovers even more!

Holiday Macro Bowl served in white bowl with fork and miso tahini

The Hearty Foundation: Floating Leaf Fine Foods’ Sprouted Blend

Every truly exceptional macro bowl, like any great architectural design, requires a strong and sturdy foundation. For this particular Holiday Macro Bowl, I chose to build upon the outstanding Sprouted Crimson Lentils, Wild Rice & Quinoa blend from Floating Leaf Fine Foods. This isn’t just any grain mix; it’s a meticulously crafted, hearty, and highly nutritious base that significantly elevates the entire dish.

This exquisite blend is a unique and thoughtful combination of whole grain brown rice, sprouted lentils, sorghum, wild rice, and quinoa. What makes it particularly special is the inclusion of sprouted lentils. Sprouting is a process that enhances the nutritional value of legumes and grains by increasing their bioavailability, meaning your body can more easily absorb the vitamins and minerals they contain. It also often makes them easier to digest, reducing potential discomfort sometimes associated with legumes.

I am absolutely enamored with this fusion of ingredients because it delivers an exceptional source of both plant-based protein and dietary fiber, crucial for sustained energy and digestive health. Beyond macronutrients, it’s also packed with an impressive array of essential vitamins and minerals, contributing significantly to your overall well-being. To further amplify the flavor and nutritional depth of your bowl, I highly recommend cooking this blend in rich vegetable broth instead of plain water. The broth infuses the grains with an extra layer of savory taste, making your foundation even more delicious and aromatic. This simple step transforms a basic component into a deeply flavorful element that complements all the other vibrant ingredients in the bowl.

Holiday Macro Bowl served in white bowl with fork and miso tahini

Serving Versatility: Beyond the Holiday Table

While this Holiday Macro Bowl with Miso Tahini “Gravy” is undeniably perfect for festive celebrations, its versatility extends far beyond the holiday season. This wholesome and delicious bowl is an ideal candidate for your regular meal prep, providing a week’s worth of nourishing lunches or quick, satisfying weeknight dinners. Imagine having these vibrant, flavorful components ready to assemble, drastically cutting down on cooking time during busy days. Leftovers, if any manage to survive, are fantastic for an elevated work lunch that will make your colleagues envious. It’s a meal that truly delivers on taste, nutrition, and convenience any day of the year.

Of course, for those special occasions, you can certainly dress it up and present it as a stunning centerpiece or a delightful side dish as part of your holiday spread. The rich colors of the roasted vegetables, the vibrant green of the scallions, and the glistening miso tahini gravy make for a truly appealing presentation. To ensure the freshest and most vibrant flavors, especially if you’re preparing the bowls in advance for guests, it’s best to store all the individual ingredients separately. This prevents sogginess and allows each component to maintain its unique texture and taste. Simply assemble the bowls just before serving, drizzle with the creamy gravy, and garnish as desired. This ensures that every bite is as fresh and delicious as possible, making it a memorable dish for any gathering, big or small. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and incredible flavor, no matter the occasion!

The concept of a macro bowl fundamentally embraces balance – a balance of flavors, textures, and essential nutrients. This Holiday Macro Bowl is a shining example, providing complex carbohydrates from the grains, ample protein from the lentils and grain blend, healthy fats from the tahini and walnuts, and a wealth of vitamins and minerals from the colorful array of vegetables. It’s a complete meal that leaves you feeling satisfied, energized, and deeply nourished, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to incorporate more whole, plant-based foods into their diet.

Holiday Macro Bowl served in white bowl with fork and miso tahini

More Delicious Vegan Macro Bowls to Explore

  • Easy Mexican Macro Bowl

  • Garden Tempeh Macro Bowls

  • Holiday Macro Bowl

  • Sweet & Savory Macro Bowl

  • Summer Beet Macro Bowl

  • Spring Macro Bowl

  • Roasted Beet Macro Bowl

  • Green Macro Bowl

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XO Lauren

Holiday Macro Bowl with Miso Tahini Gravy


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Holiday Macro Bowl with Miso Tahini “Gravy”



5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 8 reviews


  • Author:
    Flora & Vino


  • Total Time:
    1 hour 30 mins


  • Yield:
    4 servings


  • Diet:
    Vegan
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Description

Discover the ultimate Holiday Macro Bowl featuring a rich miso tahini gravy – perfect for celebrating the season or enjoying a wholesome, plant-based meal any time you desire a hearty and nourishing blend of whole foods. This festive dish blends protein-rich grains, roasted seasonal vegetables, and vibrant garnishes, all brought together with a creamy, umami-packed miso tahini dressing. It’s a versatile, adaptable recipe that not only looks stunning on any holiday table but also serves as an excellent option for healthy meal prep or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Embrace this delicious new tradition that proves plant-based eating can be both indulgent and incredibly nourishing.


Ingredients

Holiday Macro Bowl

  • 1 cup uncooked Floating Leaf Sprouted Crimson Lentils + 3 1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 15 oz can lentils, drained and rinsed
  • 2 medium/large sweet potatoes, cubed
  • 3 cups brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • avocado oil spray
  • Himalayan sea salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup crushed walnuts, toasted
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Miso Tahini Gravy

  • 1 TBSP miso paste
  • 3 TBSP tahini
  • 24 TBSP lemon juice
  • ¼ cup warm filtered water
  • 1 tsp maple syrup (optional)
  • green onion, diced


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. On the first baking sheet, evenly spread out the cubed sweet potatoes and halved Brussels sprouts. Lightly spray or drizzle them with a bit of avocado oil (omit if following an oil-free diet) and season generously with Himalayan sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and slightly caramelized, and the Brussels sprouts are beautifully browned and crisp. Once cooked, remove the vegetables from the oven and set them aside.
  3. While your vibrant vegetables are roasting, begin preparing your Floating Leaf Sprouted Crimson Lentils, Wild Rice, & Quinoa blend. Follow the package instructions precisely, using vegetable broth instead of water to infuse the grains with richer flavor. Cook until tender and fluffy, then set aside, keeping warm until you’re ready to assemble the bowls.
  4. Toast the crushed walnuts to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch. You can do this on the stovetop over low heat for approximately 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning, or bake them on a small baking sheet in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Watch them carefully as nuts can burn quickly.
  5. Now, prepare the star of the bowl: the creamy Miso Tahini Dressing. Combine the tahini, miso paste, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, ¼ cup of warm filtered water, and the optional maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory notes) in a high-speed blender. Pulse until the mixture is completely smooth and wonderfully creamy. For a thinner consistency, add more water, one tablespoon at a time. For a thicker, more gravy-like consistency, incorporate a little more tahini. Taste and adjust lemon juice or maple syrup as needed. Store the finished gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  6. To assemble your magnificent Holiday Macro Bowls, begin by adding a generous, heaping cup of the cooked sprouted lentils, wild rice, and quinoa blend to each serving bowl. Artfully arrange a portion of the roasted sweet potato, browned Brussels sprouts, the extra canned lentils (drained and rinsed), toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries on top of the grain base. Drizzle each bowl generously with the luscious Miso Tahini Gravy and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly diced green onion for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately and savor every nourishing spoonful!
  7. Any leftover components of the macro bowl should be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This allows each ingredient to retain its optimal texture and freshness. They will keep well for 3-5 days. When ready to enjoy leftovers, reassemble the desired portion and gently reheat before serving for the best experience.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Category: Macro Bowl
  • Method: Oven-Bake, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Oil-Free

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This post is proudly brought to you by Floating Leaf Fine Foods, a brand committed to quality and nutrition. While this content is sponsored, all opinions, words, and culinary delights shared here are entirely my own. We extend our sincere gratitude for supporting the sponsors that help keep our passion for delicious, healthy food alive and allow us to continue bringing you exciting new recipes!