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To get started, letÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥™s look at the steps for a bowl. They arenÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥™t complicated, but you need to be sure you prep each layer of your bowl carefully. You need to flavor every layer, whether that means quick pickling, savory sauces and spices. So, say you decide to go with a Mexican theme, like the Mexican Sticky Chicken Bowl. Bump up your rice with some lime zest and cilantro or parsley, add taco spices to the meat and guacamole flair to the dressing. Let your fresh veggies fit the season and allow them to bring crunch and color to the bowl.

Let your imagination wander through your pantry. Soy sauce, tahini and rice vinegar take you on an Asian theme; feta, black olives and oregano lead you to the Mediterranean. You donÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥™t need a lot of any one vegetable or green for your bowls, either; a couple stalks of broccoli, a red pepper, some cabbage or whatever, chopped or sliced, go a long way on these bowls.

WeÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥™ve got a few recipes for you to try here, but we want you to let your imagination and taste be your guide so here are some tips for a just-right grain bowl.

A satisfying grain bowl includes:

• 1/2 to 2/3
  • cup grains or noodles
  • 1/2
    • cup green leafy vegetables
    • 1/2 to 2/3
      • cup vegetables
      • 1/2
        • cup protein (optional)
        • 2-3 tablespoons dressing
        • 1-3 tablespoons crunchy topping or garnish

        Here are some suggestions for each layer:

        Grains: rice, brown or white; quinoa, wild rice, farro, orzo, couscous, ramen noodles

        Veggies: Mix and match colors and cut them into bite-sized cubes or matchsticks. That makes them easier to arrange on the bowls and to eat.

        • Leafy greens: baby spinach, arugula, lettuce, kale (sautéed)
        • Baked veggies: sweet potato, potato, carrots, parsnips or squash
        • Steamed veggies: broccoli, cauliflower, green beans
        • Raw veggies: radish, celery, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, cabbage

        Fruits: apples, pears, mango, dried cranberries, cherries or dates

        Proteins: cooked beans (chickpeas, lentils, black beans), boiled eggs, cooked meat (chicken, beef or lamb), seafood (canned or fresh/cooked shrimp, salmon, tuna or sardines, cheese, tofu

        Salad dressings: homemade or purchased with your bowl theme in mind will work; you can dress your bowl simply with a squeeze of citrus and olive oil or go out with your favorite homemade salad dressing or sauce.

        Toppings and garnishes: nuts, seeds, fresh herbs, pickled red onion, Giardiniera, sliced fresh pepper, dried fruits or French-fried onion bits.

        Building the bowl is simple layering. Grain or noodles on the bottom, veggies next, then a few tablespoons of dressing. Follow that with the protein and toppings or garnishes. Serve additional dressing on the side.

        You can serve your grain bowls warm or cold.

        Spare yourself any worries about needing a special ÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥œbowlÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥� for your bowls. Your favorite cereal or soup bowls are just fine for these tasty meals in one.