Summer’s Best in a Bowl: Fresh Cucumber Poke Bowls

It’s that glorious time of year when cucumbers overflow from the garden! One of my favorite ways to use them is by building vibrant, veggie-packed poke bowls. These bowls are fresh, fast, and endlessly customizable. They are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light summer lunch.

Why Choose Poke Bowls?

Not only are poke bowls refreshing, but they also provide a delicious way to enjoy a rainbow of vegetables. They include hearty whole grains and satisfying plant-based (or lean) proteins. This combination makes them a well-rounded meal option.

The Perfect Formula for Poke Bowls

Here’s the simple formula I love for assembling a flavorful, balanced poke bowl:

• A hearty base of brown rice

• Marinated tempeh or tofu (or even chicken, if you prefer—see the recipe below!)

• A colorful mix of toppings like sliced or shredded cucumbers, carrots, radishes, red cabbage, bell peppers, and avocado

• Finishing touches: edamame, cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of peanuts or sesame seeds

  
  

Nutritional Benefits of Cucumbers

Cucumbers, largely produced to make pickles in the US, are refreshing, crunchy, and easy to grow! They are mostly made up of water, but they also offer valuable nutritional benefits. Cucumbers provide vitamins C, A, and folic acid. They are a rich source of fiber, especially from the skin.

A notable characteristic of cucumbers is their concentration of silica. This mineral supports connective tissue in muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bone. Including cucumbers in your diet can be beneficial for overall health.

Customizing Your Poke Bowl

One of the best things about poke bowls is their versatility. You can customize them according to your preferences. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Grains: While brown rice is a great base, consider quinoa, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

• Proteins: If you’re not a fan of tempeh or tofu, try grilled shrimp, seared salmon, or chickpeas for a plant-based option.

• Vegetables: Don’t limit yourself! Add in seasonal vegetables like zucchini, corn, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Dressings: Experiment with different dressings. A sesame soy dressing or a spicy mayo can elevate your poke bowl to the next level.

  
  

Serving Suggestions

Poke bowls are perfect for meal prep. Prepare your ingredients in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to eat. They also make a great dish for gatherings. Set up a poke bowl bar with various toppings and let your guests create their own combinations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fresh cucumber poke bowls are a delightful way to enjoy summer produce. They are easy to make, highly customizable, and packed with nutrients. So, grab some cucumbers from your garden or local market and start building your perfect poke bowl today!

Nutrition nugget: Cucumbers, largely produced to make pickles in the US, are refreshing, crunchy, and easy to grow! Though they are largely made up of water, the additional nutritional benefits are valuable, including providing vitamins C, A, and folic acid. Cucumbers are a rich source of fiber, especially from the skin. A notable characteristic of cucumbers is their concentration of silica, which is a mineral that contributes to supporting connective tissue in muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bone.