Copycat First Watch Quinoa Power Bowl: A Healthy & Delicious Recipe

Are you a fan of healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meals? If so, you’ve probably heard of or even tried the Quinoa Power Bowl at First Watch, a popular breakfast, brunch, and lunch chain. This dish is a vibrant mix of quinoa, black beans, roasted vegetables, fresh greens, and a perfectly poached egg, all drizzled with a tangy and delicious dressing. It’s a powerhouse of nutrients and flavors that will leave you feeling energized and ready to tackle the day.

But what if you could enjoy this incredible bowl without leaving the comfort of your own home? With this copycat recipe, you can! This recipe meticulously recreates the magic of the First Watch Quinoa Power Bowl, offering a healthier and more affordable alternative. Plus, you have the flexibility to customize it to your liking. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this amazing dish.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Quinoa Power Bowl

* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this bowl is a nutritional powerhouse that supports your overall well-being.
* **Delicious and Flavorful:** The combination of roasted vegetables, black beans, quinoa, and a tangy dressing creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **Easy to Customize:** Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Add your favorite vegetables, protein sources, or dressings.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Making this bowl at home is significantly cheaper than ordering it at a restaurant.
* **Perfect for Meal Prep:** You can easily prepare the individual components of this bowl in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to eat.
* **Versatile:** Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s a great option any time of day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Quinoa Power Bowl:

* **For the Quinoa:**
* 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
* 2 cups water or vegetable broth
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* **For the Roasted Vegetables:**
* 1 cup broccoli florets
* 1 cup sweet potato, peeled and diced
* 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
* 1/2 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* **For the Black Beans:**
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
* 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
* **For the Dressing:**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* **For the Assembly:**
* 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, kale, arugula, etc.)
* 2 large eggs
* Avocado slices (optional)
* Everything Bagel Seasoning (optional)
* Hot sauce (optional)

Equipment You’ll Need

* Medium saucepan
* Baking sheet
* Large bowl
* Small bowl
* Whisk
* Skillet or pot for poaching eggs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to recreate the perfect Quinoa Power Bowl:

**Step 1: Cook the Quinoa**

1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. This step is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa, water or vegetable broth, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. The quinoa should be fluffy and tender.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the quinoa to steam and further soften.
6. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside.

**Step 2: Roast the Vegetables**

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced sweet potato, chopped red onion, and sliced cremini mushrooms.
3. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Toss the vegetables to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
5. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

**Step 3: Prepare the Black Beans**

1. Rinse and drain the canned black beans thoroughly.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the rinsed black beans, cumin powder, and chili powder.
3. Heat the beans over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and the spices are fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of the beans.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside.

**Step 4: Make the Dressing**

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is emulsified and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more lemon juice for extra tanginess or honey for more sweetness.
3. Set the dressing aside.

**Step 5: Poach the Eggs**

Poaching eggs can seem daunting, but with a few simple steps, you can master the technique and achieve perfectly poached eggs every time. Here are two methods you can use:

**Method 1: Classic Poached Eggs**

1. Fill a skillet or pot with about 2-3 inches of water and bring it to a simmer (small bubbles should be forming on the bottom of the pan).
2. Add a splash of vinegar (white vinegar or apple cider vinegar) to the water. This helps the egg whites coagulate faster.
3. Crack each egg into a separate small bowl or ramekin. This makes it easier to gently slide the eggs into the water.
4. Create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water by stirring with a spoon or whisk.
5. Gently slide one egg at a time into the center of the whirlpool.
6. Cook the eggs for 3-4 minutes for a runny yolk, or longer if you prefer a firmer yolk. The egg whites should be set but the yolks should still be liquid.
7. Remove the eggs from the water with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess water.

**Method 2: Microwave Poached Eggs (Quick & Easy)**

1. Fill a microwave-safe mug or small bowl with about 1/2 cup of water.
2. Crack an egg into the water.
3. Gently pierce the yolk with a toothpick (this helps prevent the egg from exploding in the microwave).
4. Cover the mug or bowl with a microwave-safe plate or lid.
5. Microwave on high for 45-60 seconds, or until the egg white is set but the yolk is still runny. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave, so check the egg frequently.
6. Carefully remove the mug or bowl from the microwave (it will be hot!).
7. Remove the egg from the water with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess water.

**Step 6: Assemble the Quinoa Power Bowl**

1. In two large bowls, divide the mixed greens evenly.
2. Top the greens with equal portions of cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and black beans.
3. Place a poached egg on top of each bowl.
4. Drizzle generously with the dressing.
5. Garnish with avocado slices (if using), Everything Bagel Seasoning (if using), and a drizzle of hot sauce (if desired).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

* **Vegetables:** Feel free to use other roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, or asparagus. Get creative and use whatever you have on hand.
* **Protein:** Add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for an extra protein boost.
* **Grains:** You can substitute quinoa with brown rice, farro, or couscous.
* **Beans:** Try using chickpeas, pinto beans, or white beans instead of black beans.
* **Cheese:** Sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese on top for added flavor and creaminess.
* **Nuts and Seeds:** Add a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds, for extra crunch and nutrients.
* **Spice:** If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or use a spicy hot sauce.
* **Make it Vegan:** Omit the poached egg or substitute it with crumbled tofu scramble. Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
* **Meal Prep:** Cook the quinoa, roast the vegetables, and prepare the black beans and dressing in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the bowls with fresh greens and a poached egg (or tofu scramble).

Make Ahead Tips

The Quinoa Power Bowl is an excellent meal prep option. Here’s how you can prepare it ahead of time:

* **Quinoa:** Cook the quinoa and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roast the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Black Beans:** Prepare the black beans and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
* **Dressing:** Make the dressing and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
* **Eggs:** Poached eggs are best served fresh, but you can poach them a few hours in advance and store them in a bowl of ice water in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use them, gently reheat them in warm water for a minute or two.

When you’re ready to assemble the bowls, simply combine the prepared ingredients with fresh greens and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

* **Breakfast:** Start your day with a healthy and energizing Quinoa Power Bowl.
* **Lunch:** Pack a Quinoa Power Bowl for a nutritious and satisfying midday meal.
* **Dinner:** Enjoy a light and flavorful Quinoa Power Bowl for dinner.
* **Potlucks and Gatherings:** Bring a Quinoa Power Bowl to your next potluck or gathering. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)

* Calories: 450-550
* Protein: 20-25g
* Fat: 25-30g
* Carbohydrates: 50-60g
* Fiber: 10-15g

*Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

This Copycat First Watch Quinoa Power Bowl recipe offers a healthy and delicious way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. With its customizable ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a bowl that perfectly suits your taste and dietary needs. So, ditch the takeout and start making your own Quinoa Power Bowls today! Your body (and your wallet) will thank you.

Enjoy your homemade Quinoa Power Bowl! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or if you’ve made any delicious variations!