There’s something truly comforting about a warm, hearty meal that celebrates the flavors of fall. I found myself craving just that while visiting a local café, where I stumbled upon a gem of a dish—the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl. Packed with vibrant roasted vegetables, fresh greens, and hearty grains, it resonated with my desire for wholesome home-cooked food. However, my busy lifestyle meant that finding the time—and budget—to enjoy this delectable bowl was tough. That’s when I decided to recreate it right in my kitchen!
This budget-friendly Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl features tender Brussels sprouts, creamy pumpkin, and savory chicken, all blended with the crunch of apples and tangy feta cheese. It’s the perfect solution to the monotony of fast food, allowing for a delightful, healthy meal that doesn’t break the bank. Join me as we dive into the comforts of this simple yet flavorful dish, sure to please your taste buds and feed your soul!
Why will you love this Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl?
Fresh, colorful ingredients come together in a way that celebrates the best of fall, bringing the essence of the season right to your table. Nutritious and balanced, this meal is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying choice for busy weeknights. Quick to prepare, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in about an hour, helping you skip the fast-food temptation. Versatile options allow you to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, keeping dinner exciting. Plus, with a simple dressing, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will impress family and friends alike!
Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl Ingredients
This delicious, budget-friendly recipe uses fresh ingredients to fill your dish with fall flavors!
For the Bowl
- Brussels Sprouts – Adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor when roasted; if unavailable, broccoli can be used as a substitute.
- Cubed Pumpkin – Offers creamy texture and sweetness, enhancing the fall flavor profile; sweet potatoes can be swapped in if preferred.
- Chicken Fillets – Provides lean protein and is roasted for tenderness and flavor; feel free to use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Wild Rice – Contributes a chewy texture and nutty flavor; brown rice is a suitable alternative if you need a different grain.
- Kale – Adds freshness and nutritional density; spinach can be a great substitute if you like it better.
- Diced Apple – Offers a crisp and sweet contrast to the savory ingredients; any tart apple variety, such as Granny Smith, works wonderfully.
- Feta Cheese – Provides a creamy, salty boost to the flavor; consider goat cheese for a unique twist!
For the Dressing
- Olive Oil – Used in the dressing and offers healthy fats for your meal; avocado oil can replace it if you prefer.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Adds tanginess and depth to the dressing; you can use apple cider vinegar as an alternative.
- Mustard (optional) – Enhances the dressing with a bit of tang; you can omit this if mustard isn’t your favorite.
How to Make Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting the Brussels sprouts and pumpkin to tender perfection.
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Toss Brussels sprouts and pumpkin in a bowl with melted butter, salt, paprika, and garlic powder. Make sure they are well coated in the seasoning to enhance their flavors.
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Spread the mixture on a lined baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes. You want the veggies to turn tender and lightly caramelize, creating a delicious depth of flavor.
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Season the chicken fillets with salt and your favorite spices. Bake the chicken for 30 minutes, until cooked through and slightly browned, ensuring tenderness and juiciness.
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Prepare wild rice according to package instructions. This hearty grain will add great texture and nuttiness to your bowl.
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Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, salt, and garlic powder in a small bowl for the dressing. Adjust the mustard for your preferred level of tanginess.
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Layer kale in a large bowl followed by wild rice, chopped chicken, diced apple, roasted Brussels sprouts, pumpkin, and feta cheese. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
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Drizzle the dressing over the layered bowl, gently tossing to combine if desired. Your vibrant and nutritious meal is almost ready!
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Serve and enjoy this delightful Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl, savoring every mouthful of comforting fall flavors!
Optional: Sprinkle some crushed nuts on top for added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl Variations
Ready to make this dish your own? Let’s explore some delicious twists that will brighten your cooking experience!
- Vegetable Swap: Substitute roasted carrots or parsnips for pumpkin to enhance sweetness and add a different root flavor profile.
- Grain Change: Use quinoa instead of wild rice for a lighter, protein-packed alternative that cooks faster and adds a nutty taste.
- Fruity Boost: Incorporate pears or dried cranberries for a sweet and tart contrast, elevating the flavor profile with an unexpected twist.
- Cheese Choice: Replace feta with creamy goat cheese for a tangy, rich flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Dairy-Free: Opt for a vegan cheese alternative or simply omit the cheese altogether to suit a dairy-free lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
- Heat Level: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the dressing for a touch of heat that beautifully contrasts the sweet roasted veggies.
- Nutty Texture: Toss in some toasted nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for added crunch and a delightful depth of flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Finish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to uplift the dish with fresh and aromatic notes, enhancing its fall essence.
Expert Tips for the Best Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl
- Roasting Perfection: Ensure veggies are evenly coated in seasoning before roasting to maximize flavor and achieve that delightful caramelization.
- Chicken Moisture: Cover chicken with aluminum foil for the first part of baking to retain moisture. Remove the foil later to develop a golden crust.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and spices to chicken gradually; it’s easier to adjust flavors than to fix over-seasoned meat.
- Layer Smartly: Keep greens at the bottom and layer the bowl visually. This not only helps with presentation but ensures every bite is balanced.
- Dressing Customization: Feel free to adjust the mustard in your dressing; it enhances the Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl’s tanginess but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
Storage Tips for Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the components separate, especially the dressing, to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezer: You can freeze the roasted vegetables and chicken for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in freezer-safe bags or containers.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy this Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl warm for a comforting meal.
Prep Ahead: You can also prepare ingredients like the wild rice and chopped veggies ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for easy assembly later!
Make Ahead Options
If you’re looking to save time during busy weeknights, the Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl is a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can roast the Brussels sprouts and pumpkin up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their delicious flavor and texture. Additionally, prepare the wild rice ahead of time—this can also be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the dressing, whisk everything together and refrigerate it, keeping it fresh until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, simply layer the cold ingredients with the chicken and dressing, and you’ve got a nutritious, hassle-free dinner that’s just as tasty!
What to Serve with Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl?
This heartwarming bowl of colorful ingredients deserves a delightful spread to elevate your dining experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Heavenly smooth and buttery, these mashed potatoes are a wonderfully comforting carb that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the bowl.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of carrots, parsnips, and turnips brings a sweet, earthy crunch to your plate, enhancing the harvest theme. These vibrant veggies echo the bowl’s fall flavors beautifully!
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Crispy Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted with a hint of garlic and herbs, this bread offers a satisfying crunch that complements the soft textures of the bowl.
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Butternut Squash Soup: This silky soup adds warmth and familiarity, with its gentle spices perfectly mirroring the roasted elements in the bowl. Enjoy it as a cozy starter!
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Apple Walnut Salad: A fresh side salad with tart apples and crunchy walnuts adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the feta cheese. Throw in some greens for an extra pop!
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Homemade Lemonade: This refreshing drink brightens the meal, with its zesty flavor providing a refreshing contrast to the warm elements on your plate.
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Pumpkin Spice Dessert: Cap off your meal with a slice of moist pumpkin bread or pie, celebrating the seasonal flavors and leaving everyone with a sweet taste of fall!
Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe Brussels sprouts?
When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for compact, bright green heads without any yellow leaves or dark spots. Firmness is key; you should feel a solid texture when pressed. If you notice any mushiness or dark spots all over, it’s best to skip those sprouts!
How should I store leftover Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, keep the dressing in a separate container and dress the ingredients just before serving. This way, the greens stay crisp, and the flavors remain vibrant!
Can I freeze the Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the roasted vegetables and chicken to cool completely. Package them in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible, and label with the date. These can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat until thoroughly warmed.
What should I do if my chicken turns out dry?
If your chicken ends up dry, it might be because it was overcooked. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For next time, consider covering the chicken with aluminum foil during the first part of baking; this will help trap moisture. Also, marinating the chicken beforehand can add extra flavor and juiciness!
Is this dish suitable for people with allergies?
The Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl contains common allergens like dairy (feta cheese) and can also include mustard if added to the dressing. If you or your guests have allergies, feel free to substitute the feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Always check ingredient labels if you’re unsure, especially with items like sauces or pre-packaged products.
Copycat Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl: Fall Flavors on a Budget
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts and pumpkin in a bowl with melted butter, salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Spread the mixture on a lined baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes.
- Season the chicken fillets with salt and spices, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Prepare wild rice according to package instructions.
- Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, salt, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
- Layer kale, wild rice, chopped chicken, diced apple, roasted Brussels sprouts, pumpkin, and feta cheese in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the dressing over the layered bowl and gently toss to combine.
- Serve and enjoy!