🌿🍚 HEART Exam: Blue Zones Kitchen Basil Pesto Veggie Bowl

Before we start:
I was in Indianapolis to support a friend, so I shopped at Whole Foods. There may be cheaper places to get this bowl, but Whole Foods has a LOT of safe, gluten- and dairy-free options in one place — which makes traveling with allergies so much easier. 🛒💛

H = Health 🩺

Nutrition 📊

Per bowl:

• Calories: 360

• Fat: 10g

• Carbohydrates: 60g (4g fiber)

• Protein: 7g

• Micronutrients: vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, iron

Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and inspired by nutrient-dense Blue Zones eating patterns.

Ingredients 🔍

Brown rice, tomatoes, zucchini, spinach, chickpeas, basil pesto (dairy-free), garlic, herbs, spices.

MyPlate Teaching 🍽️

• Vegetables: Loaded with veggies — a strong MyPlate win

• Grains: Brown rice for whole-grain fiber

• Protein: Chickpeas supply plant-based protein

• Tip: If you want more protein, pair with nuts, tofu, salmon, or beans

E = Eating 😋

Taste 👅

• Fresh basil flavor

• Balanced garlic + herb notes

• Bright, veggie-forward profile

Texture 🍽️

• Brown rice: Slightly chewy but soft

• Veggies: Perfectly tender

• Chickpeas: Add nice bite

How I Use It 🍽️

• Easy microwave lunch

• Add fresh basil or extra vegetables on top

• Great as a light dinner or quick travel-safe meal

A = Accessibility 💸🛒

• Store: Whole Foods (Indianapolis)

• Price: $6.99

• Notes: Available at other stores occasionally, but Whole Foods was my safe haven on this trip due to dietary restrictions

R = Rhythm Rating ❤️‍🔥

Sinus Rhythm — fresh, herbaceous, satisfying, and veggie-packed.

T = Tell Others & Tips 📣

• Perfect for veggie lovers and dairy-free pesto fans

• Nutrition Tip: Add nuts or a protein source to bump up fullness

• Flavor Tip: Add lemon juice or red pepper flakes for brightness or heat

Live safe, happy, healthy 💛