Poke bowls, Italian-style

Bright colors, fresh flavors, and light ingredients. Poke, poke bowls, and traditional salads are the undisputed stars of summer lunch breaks. These wholesome one-dish meals are easy to prepare at home or can be enjoyed in the comfort of the numerous eateries and lively street food spots that populate our neighborhoods.

In this article, we'll show you how to make a poke bowl with a delightful Made in Italy twist that highlights the authentic flavors found in traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Get ready to be won over by these irresistible aromas and flavors!

Poke bowls: the origins of this steadily growing trend

The poke bowl originated as an evolution of traditional Hawaiian poke, which consists of fresh fish (ahi tuna, salmon, octopus) cut into cubes and marinated with sauces such as soy sauce and sesame oil. 

Over time, this ancient dish has been enriched with new ingredients and toppings, such as avocado, seaweed, sesame seeds, and more, all served on a bed of rice. These variations have spread across the globe, gaining popularity in a wide range of cultures spanning from East to West, which has also led to fully vegan versions, where fish is replaced by tofu or other plant protein sources.

As can be seen, one of the poke bowl's major strengths is its extreme versatility: the dish lends to an almost infinite number of combinations and reinterpretations, making it the perfect choice for those craving a hearty yet light meal that can be tailored to personal preferences. 

Italian-style poke bowls: ideas and suggestions

One of the most distinctive aspects of the poke bowl is that it can easily be transformed into a true culinary experience featuring Made in Italy flavors. How so? Here are a few suggestions:

• Rice base: for an option that's perfect for summer, you can swap the classic base for lemon or asparagus-flavored rice. We also recommend using brown rice, which is low in calories, more nutritious, and richer in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin B
• Protein sources: You can pair or swap out fresh fish with some regular or buffalo mozzarella (we love using tiny mozzarella balls!), or even seitan for those preferring a vegan option.
• Seasonal vegetables: Our favorite summer vegetable recommendations include chopped celery, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and even melon for a twist that's sweet and refreshing.
• Extra flavor: Give your bowl even more zing with some simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor, such as olives, capers, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Dressing: Top off your Italian-style poke with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a light splash of Modena balsamic vinegar.

Poke bowls are a creative and nutritionally balanced way to bring the flavors of a Mediterranean summer to your dinner table. What's your favorite type of poke bowl?