I’m going to level with you today. I’ve hardly been able to get myself out of bed lately. It’s a real struggle, every morning, and I operate in a fog until mid-day when I finally snap out of it. Productivity has taken a definite hit, but I swear I’m not depressed—I’ve been there, and this is not that.
Maybe it’s just the winter slump? Can we chalk it up to short daylight hours? Vitamin D deficiency? Cookie and I haven’t been going on our daily walks when it’s so cold outside. Come to think of it, I ran out of multivitamins a few months ago. I’ll buy more today. Recent news events have left me deeply troubled and discouraged, which makes getting out of bed all the more daunting.
Perhaps you can relate. I’m trying to be patient with myself, trying to go to bed at a decent hour, trying to choose veggie-packed meals over nachos (although sometimes I compromise with veggie-covered nachos).
This is one vegetable-forward meal that has kept me going lately, from a new book called Bowls of Plenty: Recipes for Healthy and Delicious Whole-Grain Meals. The author, Carolynn Carreño, has co-authored a number of cookbooks with famous chefs. I felt a pang of envy when I read that she has ten avocado trees in her backyard!
Carolynn’s book isn’t vegetarian, but I’m inspired by her concepts every time I flip through her book. I took a few liberties with this one to keep it more in line with the recipes that you’ve come to expect here. Credit goes to Carolynn for the recipe and inspiration. I’m really into her yogurt-based green goddess dressing, which will likely make an appearance in future recipes. It’s a redeeming creamy sauce that makes eating veggies seem a little more indulgent, which is so welcome this time of year.
Craving more fresh, green goddess flavor? Try my green goddess hummus, green goddess hummus sandwich and green goddess salad dressing.
Farmers’ Market Bowl with Green Goddess Sauce
- Author: Cookie and Kate
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Entree
These farmers’ market bowls feature roasted vegetables, warm whole grains, chickpeas and a creamy yogurt-based green goddess sauce. It’s a healthy, hearty vegetarian dinner option that is very flexible—see the notes for variations. Recipe yields 4 servings.
Ingredients
Roasted veggies*
- 1 acorn squash, halved lengthwise, seeded and sliced into ½” thick half-moons
- ½ pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 bunch heirloom carrots with greens (about ¾ pound), scrubbed and halved lengthwise (leaving just 1-inch of greens attached)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Bowls
- 1 ¼ cups farro**
- ½ cup pepitas (hulled pumpkin seeds)
- ½ teaspoon olive oil
- Salt
- 1 head radicchio, thinly sliced, or 4 handfuls arugula or greens of choice
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, or 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas
Green goddess yogurt sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (any fat %)
- ½ cup parsley leaves
- ¼ cup cilantro or mixed leafy herbs of choice—fresh sage, oregano or marjoram, and/or thyme
- ¼ cup buttermilk (optional—I tried it with and without and couldn’t tell much difference)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, roughly chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- To roast the veggies: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit with racks in the middle and upper third of the oven. Line two large, rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup. On one of the sheets, combine all of the vegetables. Drizzle the olive oil on top and sprinkle with the salt and some pepper. Toss until the veggies are all lightly and evenly coated in oil and spices.
- Transfer half of the veggies to the other prepared baking sheet. Arrange them all in an even layer across the pans. Roast on separate racks, tossing the veggies and switching the pans on the racks halfway, until the vegetables are tender throughout and golden on the edges, about 30 to 40 minutes.
- Meanwhile, to cook the farro, combine the farro with enough water to cover by several inches in a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the grains are tender to the bite but still pleasantly chewy, 15 to 25 minutes for pearled farro or 25 to 40 minutes for unprocessed farro. Drain off the excess water and set aside.
- To toast the pepitas, combine the pepitas, olive oil and a few dashes of salt in a medium skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring often, until the pepitas are making little popping noises and turning golden on the edges, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- To prepare the green goddess sauce: In a small food processor or blender, combine all of the ingredients and blend until smooth. Taste, and add additional lemon juice and/or salt if necessary. Set aside.
- To prepare the bowls, spread a big spoonful of sauce across the bottom of 4 bowls. Divide the cooked farro into the bowls, then arrange radicchio, roasted veggies and chickpeas on top. Sprinkle pepitas over each bowl and serve with extra green goddess sauce on the side.
Notes
Recipe adapted from the book BOWLS OF PLENTY by Carolynn Carreño. Copyright © 2017 by Carolynn Carreño. Reprinted with permission of Grand Central Life & Style. All rights reserved.
*Change it up: You could use any seasonal vegetables that roast well in this recipe (think cauliflower, broccoli, sweet potato, butternut, bell pepper, red onion…). Use a total of about 2 pounds vegetables, cut into even bite-sized pieces. For the record, I’ve tried using regular (not heirloom) carrots, and didn’t enjoy them nearly as much—so if you can’t find heirloom carrots, pick a different veggie option or roast extra Brussels or squash instead.
**Make it gluten free: Substitute wild rice, brown rice or quinoa, cooked accordingly. You’ll need about 4 cups cooked whole grains for this recipe.
Make it vegan: Make a blended tahini and herb dressing instead of the yogurt dressing. Blend the following in a small food processor: ⅓ cup tahini, ¼ cup lemon juice (from 1 ½ to 2 lemons), ½ cup mixed fresh leafy herbs (I like half flat leaf parsley and half basil or cilantro), 2 tablespoons water and ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt. The sauce should be nice and creamy, but drizzle easily off the back of a spoon—if not, blend in a bit more water. Taste and add more salt, if necessary.
Vegetable enthusiast. Dog lover. I'm probably making a big mess in my Kansas City kitchen right now. 
Sarah
I feel your struggle, lady. The cold mornings make it so hard for me to get up and then spending most of the day indoors tends to drain my energy. I also watched a couple of documentaries on farming and the environment which left me in a dark place for a few days. Not a good combo with all of the politics right now.
But I find that getting out of the house to exercise and trying to take at least one walk per day is helping. Try to hang in there! Spring will be here soon. :)
Kate
Oof, the realness of those documentaries + the reality of our daily news sounds like a bad combo, for sure. I’m definitely going to try to get up and get moving! Thanks, Sarah :)
Karen @ Seasonal Cravings
I am so with you Kate! Winter is downright hard and my energy levels take a hit. I go to bed so early (9:00) sometimes earlier than my kids. How embarrassing! But a bowl of healthy goodness like this can sure help me right myself. Ah, that dressing looks divine!
Kate
I know! I’m doing so much sleeping. I keep telling myself that if my body needs it, I should honor that. Let me know if you try the bowl!
Jen
Dear Kate please take care of yourself, we need you and your super recipes and so does Cookie whom I know cheers you up!.
I am sure you will shortly have all the stamina and strength that you need.
Lots of love to you both, Jen.
Kate
Thank you, Jen! Cookie says hi :)
Nicole
Yum, looks great. I share your malaise and thank you for putting this up.
Kate
Thanks, Nicole. Hoping you feel better, too.
Lisa
I am very sorry to hear about your struggle. So many of us are feeling it lately. Of the political and social environment can be quite toxic and energy draining. One thing I would suggest is to study the connection between mood and food. There is a book called the Gut Brain Connection. I can’t recommend it since I haven’t finished it but you get the idea. Also, if you have a functional medicine practice in your area, now may be the time to go! Wishing you peace and happiness.
Kate
Hi Lisa, thank you for your note. I just added that book to my wish list. I have read a really interesting book on the microbiome by TED Talks (it’s a short and fascinating read, so definitely recommend). Can’t wait to hear what research shows in the next few years. In the meantime, I’ll keep taking my probiotics. :) Hope you are having a great day.
Sarah
This looks delicious, thank you! And yes — it has been a rough January for me and a lot of my friends in exactly the way you describe. The news may not get better, but here’s hoping for more energy as the days get longer.
Kate
Thanks, Sarah. Hoping the sun will brighten my spirits.
Samantha
Your recipes and stories are always sunshine to me, even on these gloomy days! Thank you!
Kate
Thank you for the kind words, Samantha :)
Judy
I love your food photography. This looks delicious. I especially like that you left the skin on the squash.
Kate
Thanks, Judy!
Martha
What a touching post. I completely understand, here in dark cold Wisconsin. Good food and Lewis Black videos help.
Thank you for your beautiful blog.
Kate
Very sweet of you, Martha. I think a good laugh will certainly help :)
Carolyn
Energy came full force for our 3 generations Mom, Daughter Grandson when we started making and drinking Kombucha …..just thought I would share that….<3 Love your recipes.
Going to try todays…..
Kate
I never thought of that, Carolyn! Kombucha is good for the digestive system, and so much of your gut bacteria is linked to your mood. Great suggestion.
Laura Alleva
I love your recipes . I believe you may need vitamin B-12.
Buy the sublingual B-12 that desolves in your mouth.
If you have sun that comes through a window pull a chair up and sit in the sun.
Hope you feel better soon.
Kate
Thank you, Laura!
Alexa
Many people cannot process the type of B-12 that is in most vitamins (I am one of them). If you are adding B-12, consider the methyl variety. It is still inexpensive and easy to find, just like the other B-12.
Miriam
Feel better!
Kate
Thanks, Miriam!
Cindy
Looks delicious. What your describing is a form of depression. Sometimes it is very healthy to disconnect from the daily news, because all of this is very sad.
Kate
Yes, a break from the news would most likely be helpful. Thanks, Cindy.
vivian
The bowl looks both lovely and delicious, and I will put it on next week’s menu right now. It sounds like this has been going on for a while, Kate, and it’s easy to think of a dozen reasons for it, but please consider going to the doctor and getting some routine blood work done. It’s an important way of taking care of yourself.
Kate
Thank you! Yes, that’s on my list of self-care. I appreciate it, Vivian.
Cindy B
You are not alone! I struggle with the reality of our political situation daily….sometimes I get up and feel ready to fight. Other times, I can’t get out of bed. It’s important to indulge yourself…a little. But getting out, even if it’s cold, helps. Sending lots of love and thanks for such wonderful recipes and honest blogs. Xoxo
Kate
Thanks, Cindy. It helps knowing that my readers get it, too. Your encouragement is so appreciated :)
Evelyn
Awesome! I enjoyed every bit of it. Thanks Katie
Kate
You’re welcome, Evelyn!
Jackie
Hang in there Kate! I am an Aussie – we are also feeling a bit glum this side of the globe yet the sun is shining. I love your recipes and so do my three little meat focussed others I cook for – you are doing a great job and helping lots of us. Thank you.
Kate
Thanks, Jackie! Your kind words help :)
Karrie
I’m with you! Winter blues, cold and it’s a crazy world. Beautiful dish though. Thanks for the idea. Will definitely try it. Have a great week. Karrie and my three Boston Terriers (Skittles, Delaney and Cosmo)
Kate
Thanks, Karrie! Snuggles with the pup helps, too. Cookie says hi to Skittles, Delaney, and Cosmo!
Susan
Kate, I completely get where you’re at – I’m there, too. My analysis says it’s mostly the news events. It feels somewhat like depression (I was there for most of my life), but I think that what I’ve been feeling is some hopelessness that I can come out of when I’m able to get out into nature for a while. Fortunately that’s fairly easy for us because we are volunteer tour guides at our local state park, and can go out there any time we want. If you and Cookie can stand to go outside at all, that can help.
I would also warn you against being too envious of someone with lots of avocado trees – that generally means (to the best of my knowledge) living in southern California or Florida, not places I would choose to live (done the SoCal thing).
Hope things get better for you soon. Know that there are others out there who are in the same boat with you.
Kate
Thank you, Susan. I hope we get some good news soon; that would be refreshing. We got a few warmer days this week and I took Cookie on some long walks. Hoping to get out again before yoga today. You’re right—I want the avocado trees, but not SoCal! All my best.
Virginia
Same! We’ve been under grey, gloomy skies here in Toronto for about 3 weeks now. And it’s impossible to ignore the news – it’s all so upsetting. So, commiseration and a warm hug from this side of the border. Keep your sights on the long view!
Kate
Oh, thanks so much, Virginia. It helps to hear from our kind neighbors in the North :)
Naomi
Hi Kate-
Yes, here in the Northeast it has been quite grey and the constant news stream of what is happening in our country right now is stressful and scary to me and many others. I loved hearing from the Aussie commenter that the sun is shining somewhere! Fortunately we have a winter Farmer’s Market here (Ithaca NY) and I have been getting fresh sprouts from a lady who grows them – sunflowers are our favorite! They cheer me up and make me feel like I am getting fresh vitamin filled greens : ) Maybe on top of the green goddess bowl!
Kate
Oh, I love hearing from our Aussie readers, too :) Reminds me that the sun will come out again. Sprouts sound wonderful with this, too! Let me know how it goes!
Sara @ Last Night's Feast
I love this recipe! It looks like a perfect weeknight meal. Thanks for sharing.
Kate
Let me know how it goes, Sara! :)
Deb
I just made this with what I had on hand. It’s a great way to use seasonal veggies. I didn’t have Farro, so quinoa was substituted. No lime, used lemon. Delicious lunch. Thanks!
Kate
Oh, good! Glad this worked with what you had on hand, Deb.
Rosalie
I will definitely try this recipe – the green goddess dressing sounds indulgent – what do you think of substituting avocado for the buttermilk?
PS I’m from Oz so sympathy for your lethargy and the cold weather – I think it’s called SAD – seasonal affective disorder- my cure is to cuddle my dogs but I’m sure you are doing that…then again maybe we could coin a new disorder called NAD – news affective disorder . Either way thanks for the great blog -it got me through NY with my vegan niece staying
Kate
Rosalie, I bet avocado would be great in the dressing. You can also just omit the buttermilk, but avocado sounds like more fun. :) Yep, Cookie and I snuggled for a while before I got up this morning, and she’s snoozing on my feet now. I think I have a combo case of SAD/NAD! So glad you found my blog.
Sarah
Hang in there Kate! News events have gotten me down as well. I try to remind myself that most people are open and accepting regardless of what the news says. But this bowl sounds and looks delicious – a good reason to get into the kitchen and cook and feel good! Thank you for that!
Kate
Yes, such an important reminder, Sarah. I appreciate that :)
Suzanne
I made your wonderful chili today, it’s our go to filler upper, always good! Most of my everyday go to recipes are from you! And this one looks just as yummy. So thank you for making a difference in our lives. Im so sorry to hear you are in a funk right now, I wish I had magic words, I don’t….so keep eating healthy, touch base with friends, smile at everyone you interact with, hug Cookie lots and repeat…”spring and better times are just around the corner”! Sending you a big thank you and a virtual hug.
Kate
Hi Suzanne, thank you for your note! I’m so glad you’re enjoying the recipes. Thank you for the encouragement. I know this will pass soon! Cookie sends her best.
Kelly
Beautiful pictures! I hope it is easier to get up soon. take care.
Kate
Thank you, Kelly :)
Kim
Hi Kate
Have you ever tried Ashwaganda? I have found it very beneficial for lifting my mood! Have you had your hormones tested, and your parathyroid?
Haola
Kim
Cindy
Hello Kate,
This looks stunning and wholesome for the mind, body, and soul. Let not the surrounding drama take us down! Let’s truly be the change we want to see in the world. We have so much to be grateful for and your food, little dog, and sweet life looks simply delightful. Stay committed to love my friend and be well.
Kate
Hi Kim! No, I haven’t tried it, but I’m googling it now. My thyroid levels were fine last year but I’m not sure they tested hormones. I think I’ll make an appointment soon!
Mary
This looks good, and I don’t even really know what farro is. Going to try it, without raddichio, and with lots of Green Goddess dressing! As for droopy spirits, as you can see you aren’t alone, but take your own advice- change it up! Maybe take a bosom friend out for a real tea- with buttery crumpets, get your Grandma on the phone and shop together online for Spring bonnets, and order some tulip bulbs that go with Cookies coloring for a cute future photo back drop of her when they bloom. Love the post, IT lifted my spirits!
Kate
Thank you, Mary! Farro is a whole, intact grain like wheat berries or spelt berries (any of those would work here, too—they just take longer to cook). I hope you love the recipe. Love your ideas! So fun, thank you. :)
Theresa
With all the craziness right now it isn’t easy to have a good, positive outlook. But aside from that, I would suggest having your thyroid levels checked. It can definitely affect every aspect of your health from mental to physical well being and is a common problem for a great number of women.
Kate
Thank you, Theresa. That’s a good suggestion. I got a thorough checkup last year and my thyroid levels were right where they should be, but I’ll try to get them checked again soon. One of my good friends was recently diagnosed with Hashimoto’s and it has been so good to see her with energy again.
Megan Hughes
I stumbled across your blog over the holidays and have been inspired by your fresh delicious style ever since. We are all going to need veggies and comfort and strength to get through the next four years. Thank you for the light you put out into the world!
Kate
Thanks, Meghan! Thank you for returning it with kind words like these. My readers are my inspiration, so thank you for always bringing out the best in me.
alice
hey kate, sure am with you on events in our country and trying to make sense of it all, stay on top of it all, and not be in total state of anxiety and overwhelm. thx for being open and honest with us around your feelings, life.
Kate
Thanks for the validation, Alice. I really appreciate it. At least we are not alone. All the best to you.
Heather
Remember what Obama said in his last address (I am Republican and quoting him :)): Nothing is the end of the world, except the end of the world. That is the gist, not an exact quote. Find something that gives you joy and focus on that. Thank you for inspiring me.
Kate
Thank you, Heather, I appreciate that :) The kind words help.
charlotte
I can totally relate to how you feel. The combination of the winter and the political situation is really tough. We are watching our country change — I from overseas — and it is disheartening to see it not stand for what it was always meant to to stand for. But you’re also right that we have to keep going, and have to keep ourselves strong, so the recipe is right on target. Maybe give yourself the permission to be a little down, to mourn a bit. I think that’s okay — and called for — too.
Kate
Thank you, Charlotte. I’ve been so disappointed by recent events. Hang in there.
Catherine
Looks delicious. Can’t wait to try it. (Also can’t wait for your cookbook to come out!)
I hope you feel better soon. Will try to will some warm sunshine your way.
Kate
Yes, send all the warmth this way! Let me know how the recipe works for you, Catherine :)
Catherine
Thanks for your message – I kept looking for your cookbook in your ‘shop’ and didn’t realise it was available for pre-order. Very exciting! Have pre-ordered a copy for my mum as well. :)
Amaryllis @ The Tasty Other
I feel you… And I’m chalking it all up to the weather.
I love your recipe- it sounds super delicious and perfectly nourishing, which is just the thing to beat winter blues (although nachos are also known to help a lot). Let’s all hang in there, spring is (kinda) just round the corner. x
Kate
Oof, spring is so close but so far. And yes, hopefully this recipe balances out the sometimes necessary bowl of nachos ;)
Grey
Kate, I appreciate that you’re sharing so openly here. You’re a brave and kind soul.
I’ve had some fog this winter too. For me, the fog is a form of depression, and one that I personally find way scarier than sadness, because at least when I’m sad I’m feeling something. But every person is different, and your fog may be something else.
It sounds like you’re already taking some great steps in assessing what can do to help yourself (vitamin D). You moved recently too right? That can be hard to process, especially if the move wasn’t what you had hoped, even when it is ultimately still a positive change.
On a food note, I giggled out loud about the veggie covered nachos because I do the same thing. I also love to make veggie mac – macaroni and cheese where the veggie to pasta ratio is about 3 to 1. That way I get all the comfort of warn cheesy gooey goodness but am still getting some good nutrition.
Kate
Hey Grey, thank you for your note. I’m sorry to hear about your fog and can really relate to your sentiments on depression vs. dysthymia, or whatever the technical term is for what you’re experiencing. Yes, I just moved, and wrapped up the most enormous project of my life so far (cookbook!) so it’s been a big adjustment, but for the better. I think I’ll go get my vitamin D levels checked soon. I have giant windows in my new place, but they have UV blockers built into them so I don’t know if I’m getting any vitamin D from my perch in the living room. Anyway, your mac and cheese sounds right up my alley! Just made something similar with Brussels sprouts the other day.
Sarah | Broma Bakery
I am so with you on the winter slump. I find myself reaching for pizza and burgers, then days later realize how desperately I want vegetables. This bowl is just perfect for that.
Kate
YES great point, Sarah. I’m all comfort food some days, and then others, my body is aching for some yummy greens.
anthony
Hi Kate,
Big hugs from us up here in CT – sorry about your blues.
Not surprising in some ways, with the winter, and post election realities. And then you also just finished your book, and moved. All that and still taking care of us via this blog!!
All the best, and may there be more than a few pleasant surprises for you this year!!
Anthony
Kate
So sweet of you, Anthony. Hearing so many kind words from readers like you has definitely lifted my spirits! You make the exhaustion worth it :) All the best right back atcha, friend.
Sheila
Hi Kate,
Sounds like you are just recovering from the birth of your big creative cookbook project! I like to think of creative projects as having a cycle of inhalation and exhalation, filling and emptying. Here’s to your replenishment!
Kate
That could be it! I read your comment right after yoga, so it was perfectly apt. Hope you are having a great day.
jamie
Hi, have you considered whether you might have seasonal affect disorder? It has been getting more recognition lately, and one of the suggestions to help combat it is to take vitamin D supplements and use of a sun lamp. I use vitamin D drops from my local natural grocers. The vitamin drops + taking a 15 minute walk in the afternoon when the sun is out has made such a noticeable difference for me this winter.
Kate
Thanks, Jamie! I appreciate that. I’ll be trying different things to get my energy back up, so I’ll add these tips to the list :)
EyeofNewt
Your recipes are awesome. Dogs love to snuggle, they don’t care :)… Keep it up! :)
Kate
Thanks, friend! Cookie is my fave non-judgmental snuggler. Having a friend that gives unconditional love during times like these is key.
Caitlin | Our Natural Heritage
I’m sure it’s just your body recovering from all the work you did on your cookbook! Relax and go easy on yourself :)
Kate
Thanks, Caitlin! Always a good reminder to be kind to ourselves… I need a little self care, and then hopefully I’ll be back on my feet :)
Sarah
Thanks for yet another delicious looking recipe! Just from reading your blogs Kate, it sounds like you’ve had a lot going on lately…finishing the cookbook and moving house. Your body is likely just tired! Moving can be very stressful and leave you feeling depleted and out of sorts as you unpack, develop new routines and learn to feel at home in a new space. (I know, because I just did it!) My (unsolicited) advice is to start taking those vitamins, force yourself to go outside briefly even if it’s cold, yoga/meditation/exercise, maybe get a light therapy lamp to hold you over until warmer, sunnier days and just let your body rest and recharge! My favorite new quote of late by Lawrence Welk: “There are good days and there are bad days, and this is one of them.”
Kate
Sarah, thank you! I really just might be slowing down after the craziness of moving and working on the cookbook and the holidays on top of everything else! I’m trying to get into a better routine now that life’s not so crazy, but I’m still working on some loose ends from moving. I’m back in yoga and trying to take Cookie on more walks. That quote is just perfect. Thank you for sharing!
Laura Dembowski
Hey Kate! I wanted to say I hope things perk up for you soon. I have been so down lately and it’s kind of scary to feel that way. I don’t think I’ve ever felt like this before. I know the weather and not wanting to leave the house is a huge part of it. But I’m also trying to get my career off the ground and it’s basically like lifting a lead balloon. Exercise helps me and so does dressing up, which some days means putting on lipstick and doing nothing. I’ve also been giving into movie days and am pretty excited to start watching Oscar movies OnDemand. Arrival is up first this week!
Kate
Hey Laura! I’m sorry you’ve been feeling down, too. Starting a new career is daunting, for sure. Don’t forget to reach out to friends. Always helps to share struggles and triumphs. I want to catch up on those Oscar movies soon!!
Cami
I came across your blog recently and love all of your recipes and photos… So much so, that today I found myself back-scrolling all the way to 2014! I love how your posts always start with a little bit of real life, thanks for being honest about your feelings! Hoping you will be feeling better soon :)
Kate
So sweet of you, Cami! I’m happy to have you and your encouraging words as part of our community :)
Kate
Wow, that’s amazing! Thank you for saying hi, Cami. I’m glad you found my blog. Hope you have a great day!!
Kate
Thank you, Robin!
Mindy Eklove
Winter is such a struggle! I’m a morning person and love waking up with the sun- which in the winter comes later and later…. I find taking the opportunity to be cozy, curl up on the couch with a good book, a warm blanket, and a bowl of comforting soup help!
Just discovered your blog- LOVE it!! Will definitely be a regular.
Kate
It really is! I often wish that I were a morning person, but I’m definitely a night owl, and waking up at a decent hour in the winters is so much more challenging. Thanks so much for saying hi!
Molly
Winter really starts to drag around this time of year! Maybe finishing your cookbook has something to do with it too–while finishing a project like that gives you a great sense of accomplishment, I think it’s also sort of depressing not having a specific goal to work towards! Maybe plan a long weekend trip with friends?
Kate
Hi Molly! That’s a great thought. I always feel out of sorts after a giant deadline has passed. I’m going to Morocco in a couple of months but that still seems pretty far away.
Carol Aquilante
Hope you are feeling better. I totally understand about how you are feeling. Some days my head won’t clear from all the spin. But I am not someone who is going to sit back while my choices and rights are taken away. I also try putting some humor in things. Believe me that there is plenty that is pathetically funny. Join a movement, support a cause or call your representative. It doesn’t matter what side you are on. I live in Florida and decided to plant another vegetable garden and am getting that ready as we speak. Now that is something constructive that helps you from getting robbed once we start getting higher food prices plus no one can dictate to us what we plant. Just buy seeds and plants from a reputable supplier. It is estimated that $65 worth of seeds can grow about $1200 in produce. The taste is incredible as is the satisfaction.
A section on growing some of your own food might be a nice feature on your website. Start with the easy vegetables. I buy heirloom plants and seeds when possible. They have not been genetically altered.
I was going attempt your Cinnamon Toast Breakfast Quinoa but too hungry to wait. So I just got some leftover plain cooked Quinoa and heated it with a little butter, honey, cinnamon and threw in some raisins and walnuts. I will let you know when I try your version. By the way, I tried the Quinoa for the first time because of your recipes. I use it as a replacement for potatoes in a meal. My three dogs love the leftovers. HAVE A GREAT DAY!!
Kate
Hi Carol, hope your day is going well. I love that you’re taking on new projects. I live in an apartment now but hope to start a little herb and veggie container garden on my patio when it warms up. It faces south so I know they’ll get plenty of sunlight! So glad you are enjoying quinoa now. I just made a quinoa stir-fry for lunch that was surprisingly tasty. Will have to share on the blog soon.
Johanne
Strange. The reason I was on the computer looking at recent posts from blogs I follow is because I can barely get anything done these days. The feeling of dread is sitting in my heart. Sorry for writing that. A trip to the farmers market and a rainbow bowl with Farro sounds a good remedy.I will be trying this.
All the best-Johanne
Kate
Johanne, I can relate and I’m so sorry you’re feeling down. Hope this dish offers some sustenance and cheer. xo!
Marcia
Believe me, Kate, you are not alone! The last few months, but especially the last 11 days, have been unbelievably upsetting for so many of us. I’ve been around since the Eisenhower era and never seen anything like this. Every day there’s some new turmoil, and that alone is exhausting.
But on a more personal front, I agree with others that at least part of your fatigue/malaise likely has to do with your completing your cookbook as well as your recent move. Both require huge amounts of energy, emotional as much (maybe even more?) as physical. When I finished my doctorate, after all that continual, pressured work going into researching and writing my dissertation (much the same as the time and effort you put into your book), I at first was floating on air but after a bit of that found I was just useless. It seems to me it’s the body’s way of saying, “Hey, give me a break here… I’m exhausted!”
In my experience, listening to your body and being kind to it after putting it through a lot of hard work and stress is the path out of this. Baby yourself a bit, Kate! You’ve certainly earned some quality R & R, so I say take it and no guilt! My bet is that after a little respite, you’re going to find that energy coming back, right along with warmer temps and welcome sunshine.
Kate
Thank you so much, Marcia! I don’t even know where to begin on the political front, but you’re definitely onto something about the cookbook/moving combo. I wasn’t treating myself very well during big chunks of that time. Example: the day before I moved, I had to re-shoot the cookbook cover per my publisher’s request, which meant that I couldn’t pack up my kitchen stuff, which meant that I got less than 4 hours of sleep in between very physically demanding days of packing/unpacking, which also meant that I had to make five solo trips back and forth to get all the rest… I’m tired just remembering how it all went down. :) Here’s to more sunshine soon, and appreciating the good, kind people around us as more crazy, disappointing news comes our way.
Maggie K
Hi Kate,
I’m sorry to hear that :( As a psychologist who works in Montana where we have long, dark winters, I want to reassure you that this is a real phenomenon! You would not believe how many of my patients express something similar come November, December, January. A few things that might help – try B vitamins for energy and vitamin D to make up for the lack of it during the long winter hours. Also, try using a seasonal therapy light (Mine is a “Happy Light” brand that I bought at Bed, Bath, and Beyond). They are not UV light so not harmful to skin, eyes, etc. Rather, they are bright full spectrum lights that mimic natural daylight, and activate the photoreceptors in the eye that respond to sunlight and send signals to the brain increase serotonin/decrease melatonin production. They can really help, especially if used daily during the morning. They are also available on Amazon and there are a variety of brands, sizes, price points, etc. I highly recommend trying one for a few weeks and see if it helps your energy levels. Also it’s always a good idea to get a medical checkup and blood work if you haven’t had any recently. Lot of things, such as thyroid and Vitamin D deficiency, can contribute to this type of issue. Good luck, and I hope you start feeling better soon.
Maggie
Kate
Hi Maggie, thank you so much for your note. So many good ideas. It just occurred to me that I should leave my bedroom blinds open overnight—my new place has black-out blinds and they are a little too effective, I think! I’ve been taking B vitamins and my thyroid levels were fine last year, but maybe I should go get another check-up. Thanks again and hope you have a great day.
S.
How long do you think this dressing would keep in the fridge? Could I make on batch to stay in the fridge all week long? Or better to make smaller batches every couple of days?
Kate
Hi, sorry for the delay! This dressing has kept well in my fridge for over a week now, actually.
Robin Bennett
This was delicious and pretty easy to pull together! I roasted the chickpeas alongside the veggies, and even my kids gave it the thumbs up (although thumbs down to the brussel sprouts).
Kate
9/10, I’ll take it! Hopefully they’ll warm up to the brussels sprouts as they get a little older :)
Becca
Feel better and thank you for all of your delicious recipes!
Kate
Thanks, Becca!
Eva Custers
It’s been so rough… What helps for me during these dark days is blogs like yours! What I mean is, I try to focus on the good things in life, and on good friends. I also try to stay away from Facebook, too many opinions there and not facts. The facts are bad enough. Also, coming from Europe originally, I’m sorry to say it’s not that much better there.
Exercise does help! Easy for me to say here in SoCal but still :-). Hang in there and thank you for your wonderful recipes and stories.
Kate
Thank you, Eva. Great tips. You hang in there, too! I’ve been getting back into my regular yoga routine and will have some more recipes and stories for you soon.
Thomas Anastasio
The green goddess sauce is awesome, im not usually a fan of yogurt sauces but this one was great.
Kate
Great! Happy this one broke the losing streak :)
Sarah
Ditto – it has been truly crazy how down my mood and energy have been this winter… the political landscape is definitely one reason; I can say without hesitation it has affected my entire wellness system.
That said, a potent vitamin B tablet has really been helping me – and a consistent bedtime. And a bit of excercise (which I’ll get right on after my out-of-nowhere bladder/yeast infection clear up; eeeek!)
My gynecologist also is checking my iron and thyroid levels; evidently that can be a thing, even with seemingly healthy women.
Here’s to longer days, more sunshine and healthy (and perky-er!) bodies!!!
Kate
Hope you’re on the up-and-up, Sarah! I’m going to get my vitamin B and D levels checked out. I wonder if running out of multivitamins a few months ago while I was going crazy on cookbook details was really bad timing. Are you taking probiotics regularly? I used to get some out-of-nowhere infections like that, but not anymore! I take the Ultimate Flora Women’s Care brand (it’s available on Amazon).
Joanna
I made the Farmer’s Market Bowl last night for my family. They LOVED it and so did I! I avoid dairy so I made the vegan sauce. The meal preparation was a little more labor intensive than I normally do for a mid-week meal, so I cut the veggies/made the sauce/toasted the pepitas in the morning and then did the rest in the evening. I allowed my 5 and 7 year old sons to choose 2 of the 3 roasted veggies (choice helps A LOT in making sure my boys get the nutrition they need!). They ate every single bite. My husband said it was “restaurant quality!” I would definitely recommend this meal to anyone to warm up a cold winter night. Thank you so much!!
Kate
What a great way to have the boys involved in choosing nutritious, delicious food! So happy the whole family loved this one.
Mary
I really appreciate your post, Kate. I’m in cold and not that bright Chicago and feeling the usual bit of a winter slump exemplified by a general malaise, anger, sadness over politics. I thought- I need to make myself some healthy, delicious food. Then I found this! While I don’t wish sadness/winter fog on others, it feels good to know we’re not alone. So until the sunnier days come, we have each other…and fresh vegetables.
Kate
Oof, send my love to the windy city, Mary! Yes, our midwest winters can be rough, but at least we have good friends with whom we can commiserate and nutritious food to heal what ails us.
Elina
We used kale and arugula as the base, because radicchio is expensive, and it turned out great! The sauce could use more flavor — I upped the salt and black pepper, but will think of ways to improve it even more for next time. It was great, even without the pepitas/chickpeas.
Kate
So happy your version worked out well, Elina!
KAYCEE
Yes definitely try taking a multivitamin and maybe have your vitamin d and thyroid levels checked just to be sure there isn’t anything else going on. <3
Kate
Thanks, Kaycee! I hope to shake this funk off soon.
Anneka
I’m sorry to hear that winter’s being a pain to you. Personally, I find that it can help to just look at some pictures of sunshine, beaches, etc… Gives me hope that spring will come eventually ;). Or if you have a fireplace, you could just get warm with a fire and some hot chocolate.
Best of luck!
And the recipe looks amazing!! Can’t wait to try it!
Kate
Thanks, Anneka! A cozy fire would be wonderful.
Gustavo Woltmann
What a ridiculously good looking plate of food! I just love when my food is colorful and so visibly fresh!
Kate
Me too, Gustavo! This one is beautiful & nutritious.
Alexandra @ nickels.and.noodles
I made these this weekend. There is nothing like smelling fresh chopped herbs to brighten your mood on a cold, grey winter day! My home smelt so fresh and vibrant! Instant mood booster :)
Kate
Yay! Thanks, Alexandra!
Calah
I added apples to my roasted veggie mix. What a delicious recipe! Love your blog.
Kate
Apples sound *so good* with this!
Lora
I don’t know how your recipes are so consistently good. I just made this for lunch and it’s fantastic. I subbed cauliflower for the squash and cauliflower rice for the farro and it is just so, so good. I’m looking forward to tomorrow’s lunch!
Kate
Lots of trial & error on my end, Lora! So glad this one came out great :)
vivian
This was very good, and so healthy too! I especially liked the crunch from the toasted pepitas, but really everything was good. Thanks!
Kate
You’re welcome, Vivian! Thanks for trying it :)
Christine
We are fans of your recipes in general, but I could seriously eat this everyday!! We are vegan and gluten free, so I subbed wild rice for the Farro. My kids are not fans of squash, so I subbed broccoli. For the dressing, I used Kite Hill Almond yogurt and omitted the buttermilk. It was all amazing!! One of my favorites. Thank you!
Kate
Great, I’m glad this has worked out for everyone’s needs & tastes. Thanks, Christine!
Karis
Hi Kate, I’m a new reader and absolutely loving and so thankful for your recipes! I saw you mentioned Vitamin D, and I’m not sure if you were serious, but I recently had my vitamin d level checked after 4 years of struggling with depression, fatigue, and brain fog and it turns out- mine is abnormally low. Just a thought to check with your doc if it’s a real concern :)
Kate
Hi Karis! Thank you for your note. I’m so glad you found my blog. I’m sorry to hear that you struggled with an undiagnosed deficiency for four years. That’s so unfortunate! At least now you have your solution. I saw my doctor recently and she tested me for a variety of issues but not Vitamin D, strangely enough. She said insurance wouldn’t pay for it because it’s presumed that most American women ARE deficient (that’s crazy, right?), so I’m going to start taking daily supplements.
Bridget
I’d highly recommend a news fast after 5 pm — my mornings got a lot easier when I wasn’t tossing and turning and having political nightmares.
L
This recipe looks so delicious I am going to try it tonight! Sorry that you are feeling down and so sad. Yes the political situation is crazy right now. I do know the news is a good thing to avoid, as it can really make you feel angry and depressed. But I certainly feel a new energy in our country now and I think so much can be accomplished for the good. The majority of people here in this country want to see the country as a whole doing better, and the political results are an indication that things will at least be going in the right direction now.
So please don’t feel too down, as things can only go up from this point. Thanks again for the great recipes!
Kate
Thanks, L! I hope you love this recipe. I hope we see more good news soon!
Julie Foppes
I feel the same way . I am so pleased to have found your healthy recipes. I am in a winter slump and need to kick start my healthy cooking again. I have not been eating as healthy and clean as I should. I am looking forward to Spring, riding my bike, and enjoying the outdoors.
Kate
Hey, Julie! Yes, I’m definitely a sun-worshipper, so I’m there with you, looking forward to spring. I hope you can find some reprieve from your winter funk soon :)
Joey
This was delicious! The only adjustments I made was to roast the garbonzo beans with the vegetables, and I substituted black rice for the Farrow. The sauce was good on its own, but spectacular when it’s all put together. Thanks again Kate, you never disappoint!!!!
Kate
Yes! So glad this worked out for you, Joey.
dani
Hi Kate
Looks delish – can’t wait to try.
Definitely get your vit d and iron levels checked! There is a lot of vitamin deficiency which is causing lots of us to feel sleepy and well – just not there – please do get this done asaaaapppp!!! (med student here)
Take care and time will pass, and the bad news will pass and better news will come :)
Try to look for silver linings and honestly they will change your outlook and just make you feel better on the inside. Too cold to go out? Hmm hot choc indoors instead? WIN etc
lots of love xx
Kate
Thanks, Dani! I just got my blood tests back and they were all normal. My doctor said insurance won’t pay for a Vitamin D test since it’s generally assumed that American women are deficient in Vitamin D. I’m going to get some Vitamin D gummies!
Danielle
Hi Kate- I feel ya. I spent most of November feeling like there was no way I would ever be able to focus on real life again and also like I was living in a dystopian novel.
One thing that has snapped me out of this at least a little is by engaging in other activities to make me feel like I am making the world a little better. I became a monthly donor to planned parenthood. I’m volunteering in my community. I am writing my (ok lets face it.. other peoples) senators and representatives. I am doing a side project with my friends to increase access to medicines that reduce maternal mortality.
Everything still kind of sucks, but at least now it feels a little more like I am living in one of those Parks and Recreation episodes where nobody appreciates Leslie Knope than 1984.
There’s no time for complacency! We have to work to protect the things we care about now. Also it just makes you feel a little less helpless.
Also… I need more information about these vegetable packed nachos.
Best of luck
-D
Kate
Thanks, Danielle! I love what you’re doing to help. And love your Parks and Recs/George Orwell reference. I am thinking about ways to use this blog platform for good. As for the nachos, try baking up some cheesy nachos and topping them with a bunch of this carrot salad. Sounds weird, tastes awesome.
Jane
Not a fan of this meal. I was really excited about it but it came out flat and it took way too long.
Kate
I’m sorry you were disappointed, Jane. Were you looking for more spice than the end product seemed to have?
Hadar Kotler
This recipe is so beautifully presented! Can I ask the brand of the bowl you used?
camille
Just made this for my husband and 3 kiddos (3,5,9). I used asparagus instead of Brussel sprouts and didn’t have pepitas otherwise I followed the recipe . It was delish!!! Even my kids ate it. Keep cooking Kate! Love your recipes!
Kate
So glad everyone enjoyed, especially the kids! Thanks, Camille.
Abby
Made this tonight with a few modifications and we loved it! Subbed farro for wild rice because my mom is gluten free. We forgot to get yogurt at the store and ended up using ricotta and some sour cream and it worked just fine! Added the juice of an entire lemon (yum) to the sauce and some black pepper. For the herbs, we did parsley, oregano, and thyme. For veggies, we couldn’t find heirloom carrots so we subbed a small red onion sliced into wedges and a small bag of pre-chopped cauliflower. So good!!
Abby
Oh! And I added the canned chickpeas to the baking sheets for the last 15 minutes to crisp them up a bit which I really liked! Thank you so much for the recipe!
Sara
Made this tonight for the fam- this recipe is booming with flavor! Filling. Tastey. Everyone loved it! Can’t wait to make it again :)
Grace
I didn’t have all the ingredients for this but I made for a quick snack for just me with the little quinoa and veggies I had left and it was delicious! That green goddess sauce is something else! :D
Kate
I’m glad that worked out, Grace! I love each of the components of this recipe.
Dana K.
I LOVE this recipe because it really is a foundation for a seasonal vegetable bowl of your choice. I’ve made this with a variety of different vegetables, just like the recipe suggests, and each time it turns out fantastic.
It’s hearty, tasty, filling and it stores well for leftovers. It pairs well with a lager or IPA beer or a smoky red wine. It’s great for guests or meals for lunch in the office.
Kate
Ooh, thanks for the beverage pairings, Dana! I appreciate that. I’m so glad it was delicious.
Michelle Miner
This looks SO good! I love creamy dressings too. I think I will make this with vegan yogurt. Definitely relating to you right now, though it’s summer, it has been difficult finding the motivation to do anything-let alone cook. Looking at these recipes is changing that. Can’t wait to try this! thank you so much.
Kate
Ugh, I get the motivation thing, for sure. I hope that this puts a little pep in your step!
Sara
This recipe posting is nearing a year old, but super relevant today! The weather has dropped from 78 last week to a frosty 38, and I was really feeling some comfort food. This. Was. Phenomenal. I used quinoa, and the veggies I had on hand to roast were acorn squash, brussels sprouts, and red onion, and I had red cabbage for crunch. Even though I nixed the pepitas, this was still incredible. Thank you for posting, I now have delicious lunches for a couple more days that I can’t wait to eat!
Kate
I think it is very fitting, Sara. Thanks for your review!
Traci
We made this last week using brown rice instead of farro. Absolutely delicious! And the leftovers the next day were just as good :)
Kate
Great! Thank you, Traci for your review. Leftovers are the best :)
Sophie
Love this recipe, so easy and versatile! I’ve made at least three different versions of this one already. Also great to clean out your fridge. Thx!
Kate
You’re welcome, Sophie!
Giselle
I wanted to make savory pancakes for dinner this weekend and went looking on your site for a savory pancake recipe and couldn’t find one. I used this recipe instead and substituted pancakes for the farro. It was good. I’d recommend. There was plenty of creamy sauce for sopping up with the pancake. But can I request some savory pancake recipes on your site? I’m not sure why savory pancakes aren’t more of a thing. :)
Kate
I will think about that one! Thanks, Giselle.
Taija
Absolutely delicious!
Juliana S
Super great combination of flavors. I used short grain brown rice since it’s what I had on hand and actually put a tablespoon of zhoug sauce in the dressing since I love the flavor. I could totally see doing the roasted veggies again on a busy week night. My only comment would be that the Brussel sprouts cook so much faster than the rest, which might be a good thing to mention in the instructions. I took them out at around 20-25 minutes and they were already getting pretty browned. Thanks for the recipe!
Kate
Hi Juliana, Thank you for sharing! I haven’t experienced that. I wonder how big or small you cut your vegetables? That can play into them cooking faster.
juliana
Yeah I’m not sure what caused it. I cut the Brussel sprouts in half and cut the carrots and squash about a 1/2 inch thick. I guess every veggie and oven is a bit different ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ loved the recipe tho. I just needed to keep a watchful eye.
Kate
Hmm…I’m not sure. I’m happy you enjoyed it!
Eliisa
Love this blog. Love your cookbook. Love this recipe. Every flavor adds a wonderful layer for a hearty, comprehensive experience with each bite.
Karen R
I love all your recipes! So fresh like clean laundry! An inspiration. I live in the northeast so I know about foggy mornings.
Anne B Griffiths
just wanted to send you my love and support from afar – afar….
thanks for your beautiful food.
take care