Taco Bowl Tuesday

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I am the luckiest girl alive because I have brilliant friends and family! After I had Rocco my bestie from 3rd grade, yes you read that right 3rd grade, came to visit! While she was only here for a few days her stay was so insanely helpful it still makes me cry to think about. Lucky for me she and her family of 7 [did I mention my bestie is also a superhero!?] often eat raw and vegan so with just what was in my fridge/pantry she made the most delectable dinner I had in ages. And because the cravings don't stop after you have your nugget I wanted it again and again, so I did my best to recreate her awesome meal! What I love about this bowl is that you can keep everything in the fridge and just throw it together when you are hungry! There are a few components, but I swear it is so quick and easy, soon you'll be craving it too!! [The Greens] Romaine [chopped]

Avocado Dressing [Avocado, pinch of salt, juice from 1 lemon, minced garlic if you have time]

Mash avocado until it's guacamole then toss the lettuce in the mixture, instant dressing!

[The Grains]

1 cup quinoa

2 1/2 cups water or veggie broth

1 can of black beans, strained and rinsed

Pinch o salt

Either cook quinoa, liquid, and salt like rice or throw into the rice maker and press on. Add the beans to the cooked quinoa.

[The Veggies]

Bell Peppers, Mushrooms, Zucchini, Red Onion. Chopped nice and thick.

Toss in a pan with some olive oil or water to sauté. You only need to toss them around for a just a few minutes. You want them still crunchy and fresh tasting. Toss in a pinch of salt and black pepper.

[The "Meat"]

1 cup of raw walnuts

2 tablespoons of tomato paste

1-2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

pinch of salt

pinch of cumin and chili powder, optional

Toss in the walnuts, paste, salt, and optional ingredients in a food processor. Start slowly adding the evoo. You don't want it too oily. Pulse until it looks like the texture of taco meat. Done.

Now it's time to layer your salad. Add your greens, then quinoa, then veggies, and top with your taco meat!! This dish is magical and super healthy.

Enjoy!!!