Grow a Balanced Meal: 5 Plants That Are Great Sources of Fat, Protein, Carbs & Vitamins

By Sallie McBrien

Want to grow a balanced meal at home? Try growing these five plant sources of fat, protein, carbs and vitamins!

Those looking for a unique way to incorporate more nutrition into their diet can grow their food, as many plants provide excellent macronutrients. Growing food in your indoor or outdoor garden can become a fun hobby and may even be a creative way to get your kids to eat their vegetables! Here are five plants that add flavor to meals and are quality sources of fat, protein, carbs, and vitamins.

Avocados

Avocados are a great way to grow a balanced meal yourself. The incredibly versatile fruits, used in various dishes, and are simply delicious. They’re also one of the best sources of healthy fats, containing monounsaturated fat, associated with reducing the risk of heart disease and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

 

Avocados also provide an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and more. Gluten- and sugar-free, avocados are a great addition to any meal or cuisine!

How to Grow Avocados

Avocado trees can be grown indoors or out as long as they receive full sunlight or exposure to grow lights. Cover the seed with soil, and keep the soil moist. Once rooted, position it in direct light.

 

Harvest avocado trees when they become soft and have reached full maturity, typically three to four years after planting. Then, you’ll have access to the delicious flavor of fresh, homegrown avocados that you can add to any meal, from hearty salads to creamy breakfast smoothies.

Quinoa

Quinoa is a whole grain that is naturally gluten-free and an excellent source of plant-based proteins. It also contains carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins like B2, folate, and niacin, making this unique grain a good choice to grow a balanced meal in your backyard. 

 

Quinoa can be a great alternative to rice and often pairs well with chicken, salmon, and vegetables. It’s often used as a base for breakfast and buddha bowls.

 

Quinoa provides significant amounts of dietary fiber, which helps to improve digestion and maintain blood sugar levels. Its high protein content makes it an excellent addition to vegetarian or vegan diets.

How to Grow Quinoa

Quinoa is a fast-growing crop, and it’s easy to grow and harvest at home with some soil and sunshine. Start by planting the seeds about one inch deep in moist soil. Keep them watered throughout the season, as quinoa prefers a damp environment.

 

Harvest quinoa after three to four months. Once it’s ready, thresh the crop to remove the grains and store them in a cool, dry place for up to one year.

Beans

Beans offer a great source of plant-based proteins, fiber, and carbohydrates. Different beans, like chickpeas, lentils, and edamame, have varying levels of these macronutrients. To grow a balanced meal, beans are a must have plant!

 

Common bean varieties include black, pinto, green, and soy. Their low-fat content and high dietary fiber can help keep people full for longer.

How to Grow Beans

Beans are relatively easy to grow and thrive in most climates. All one needs to get started is seeds, soil, fertilizer, water, and sunshine. Then, plant the seeds about one inch below the surface of the soil, and keep them watered until they sprout.

 

Harvest beans once the plants reach full maturity, between 45 and 70 days. To ensure the best possible flavor and nutrition, eat them fresh from the garden.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a flavorful and nutritious addition to any meal. They’re low in calories and high in essential vitamins, including vitamins C and A. Tomatoes are also rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

 

Tomatoes provide dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, and other health benefits. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or blended into tasty sauces and soups. They’re also a popular addition to salads, sandwiches, and tacos.

How to Grow Tomatoes

Whether you have a large backyard or live in a small condo with a little outdoor balcony, tomatoes can easily be grown at home in pots or gardens if they receive plenty of sunshine. Start by planting the seedlings about an inch deep in moist soil. Keep them watered and fertilized throughout the season.

 

Harvest tomatoes when they reach full maturity, which can take anywhere from 60 to 100 days. Enjoy sweet and juicy homegrown tomatoes in various dishes or on their own as a snack. Tomatoes a no brainer when you want to grow a balanced meal at home!

Nuts

Nuts are excellent sources of plant-based proteins and healthy fats. Different types provide varying levels of carbs, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Their high protein level makes nuts a must have to grow a balanced meal at home!

Nuts are also a great snack or topping. Some of the most popular types of nuts include:

 

• Almonds
• Walnuts
• Pecans
• Hazelnuts
• Peanuts

 

Most nuts can be eaten raw, roasted, or added to recipes like trail mixes, energy bars, and desserts.

How to Grow Nuts

Growing nut trees is a great way to access fresh and nutritious nuts at home. However, doing so requires patience as it takes several years for nut trees to mature, but it’s rewarding.

 

Start by planting the seeds in well-draining soil, ensuring enough sun and water. Once the trees are fully grown, harvest them when their nuts start falling on the ground. Store nuts in an airtight container to ensure freshness for months.

Ready to Grow a Balanced Meal at Home?

The above plants are excellent sources of fat, protein, carbs, and vitamins. With some patience and effort, they can be grown at home for a constant supply of nutritious plant-based foods. Proper seed storage, suitable soil, and plenty of light will provide you with a garden full of fresh produce and will help you to grow a balanced meal right in your own backyard.

 

This article was written by Sallie McBrien. Check out her website, Your At Home Team!