Buddha Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Buddha Bowl is a nourishing, well-balanced meal packed with colorful vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and plant-based protein. It’s customizable, making it easy to add your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. The combination of textures and flavors—fresh, roasted, creamy, and crunchy—makes this bowl both satisfying and energizing. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, dinner, or a meal prep option, Buddha Bowls are a vibrant, nutrient-dense choice.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Base:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa, rice, or brown rice (choose your preferred grain)

Roasted Vegetables:

• 1 cup sweet potato, cubed
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or cumin (optional for extra flavor)

Fresh Vegetables:

• 1 cup spinach or mixed greens
• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced (optional)

Protein:

• 1/2 cup chickpeas, roasted (or use other protein like tofu, tempeh, or grilled chicken)

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin the dressing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

For the Roasted Vegetables:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cubed sweet potato and cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly browned.

For the Dressing:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Add water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency, making the dressing smooth and pourable.

For the Buddha Bowl:

1. Start by placing a scoop of cooked quinoa or rice in the center of each bowl.
2. Arrange the roasted sweet potatoes, cauliflower, fresh spinach, cucumber, avocado, shredded carrots, and red cabbage around the grain base.
3. Top with roasted chickpeas (or your protein of choice).
4. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the top, and garnish with additional herbs, seeds, or nuts if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2.
Preparation time: 10 minutes (for prep and roasting)
Cooking time: 25 minutes (for roasting vegetables)
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add different proteins: Swap chickpeas for grilled chicken, tofu, tempeh, or black beans for a heartier bowl.
• Add more grains: Experiment with other grains like farro, barley, or millet for a different texture.
• Add more crunch: Top with seeds like pumpkin, sunflower, or sesame, or add a sprinkle of nuts like almonds or cashews.
• Make it spicy: Add hot sauce, chili flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing for heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Reheat the grain and roasted vegetables separately in the microwave or on the stovetop. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Can I make a Buddha Bowl ahead of time?
Yes, Buddha Bowls are great for meal prepping. You can assemble the bowls and store them in the fridge without the dressing for up to 3 days.

Can I use cooked vegetables instead of roasted?
Absolutely! Feel free to steam or sauté your veggies instead of roasting them, depending on your preference.

Can I use a different dressing?
Yes! You can make a lemon-tahini dressing, avocado dressing, or even a balsamic vinaigrette, depending on what flavor you prefer.

Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, Buddha Bowls are naturally vegan, but you can add cheese or any animal-based protein if you prefer.

Conclusion

Buddha Bowls are a delicious, versatile, and nutritious meal that’s full of vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and a variety of textures. Customizable to your preferences, these bowls are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re craving a wholesome lunch or a light dinner. The creamy tahini dressing brings everything together, making each bite a satisfying and energizing experience!

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