Why You’ll Love This Spring Buddha Bowl

So many reasons, but here are a few.

• • Nutritious: Buddha Bowls are packed with nutrient-dense foods to help you meet your daily recommended intake of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
  • Versatile: You can mix and match different ingredients to create a meal that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Easy to make: Buddha Bowls are incredibly easy to make, and you can prep many of the ingredients ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
  • Filling: The combination of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.
  • Cost-effective: Using simple, whole-food ingredients can create a nutritious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Plus, by prepping the ingredients ahead of time and using leftovers, you can save time and money on future meals.
  • Eco-friendly: By incorporating plant-based ingredients and reusable containers and utensils, you can help reduce your carbon footprint and promote sustainability.
  • Delicious: With a variety of flavors, textures, and colors, Buddha Bowls are not only healthy but also satisfying to your taste buds. Plus, by experimenting with different ingredients and seasonings, you can create endless variations of this tasty dish.

Buddha Bowl Ingredients

Mix and match is where it’s at with this fresh grain bowl!

• • Quinoa – a protein-rich grain with a nutty flavor and chewy texture that serves as a base for the bowl.
  • Avocado – a creamy fruit rich in healthy fats and fiber that provides a satisfying texture.
  • Roasted chickpeas – crispy and crunchy legumes seasoned with various spices that add a plant-based protein source to the bowl.
  • Cucumbers – refreshing and hydrating vegetables with a crisp texture and sweet flavor that provide a refreshing crunch.
  • Cherry tomatoes – small, sweet, and flavorful tomatoes that add a bright burst of color and flavor to the bowl.
  • Green onions – mild onions with a subtle onion flavor and crunch that serve as a garnish or topping for added flavor and texture.
  • Arugula – a leafy green with a peppery and slightly bitter taste that adds a vibrant green color and bold flavor to the bowl.

How to Make a Buddha Bowl

Super easy to make!

• • Cook the quinoa according to the package instructions and set aside.
  • Roast the chickpeas – (see my recipe here). Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, sea salt, and freshly ground pepper. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes at 425° or until crispy.
  • Cut the veggies – While the chickpeas are roasting, slice the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and green onions.
  • Make your dressing. For our Buddha Bowl today, we like to use Cilantro Lime Dressing, Green Goddess Dressing, Lemon-Garlic Cashew Cream, or Lemon-Garlic Tahini.
  • Assemble the Bowl – This is the fun part! 
  • Start with a base of cooked quinoa in a large bowl.
  • Add the sliced avocado, roasted chickpeas, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and sliced green onions.
  • Drizzle the dressing over the top of the bowl.
  • Finish by topping the bowl with fresh arugula.
  • Dig in!

Buddha Bowl Variations

Use your imagination!

• • Protein – Substitute with black beans, kidney beans, or lentils for a different source of protein.
  • Roasted or sautéed tofu or tempeh can also be used as a plant-based protein option.
  • Veggie 1 – Sliced zucchini or yellow squash. Bell peppers or shredded carrots can also add a nice crunch.
  • Veggie 2 – Diced or sliced regular tomatoes. Roasted or grilled bell peppers or eggplant can also provide a sweet and savory flavor.
  • Avocado – Substitute with hummus, tahini, or guacamole for a creamy texture and healthy fats.
  • Roasted sweet potato or butternut squash can also provide a similar texture and flavor.
  • Herbs / Onions – Substitute with sliced red onions or diced shallots.
  • Chives, cilantro, or parsley can also provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor.

Remember, the key to a great Buddha bowl is to use fresh, colorful ingredients that provide a variety of textures and flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to find your perfect Buddha bowl!

Try One of Our Other Grain Bowls

Grain Bowl Template (the basics of grain bowl making)

Mexican-Inspired Bowl

Mediterranean Bowl

If you give any of these grain bowls a try, let us know in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!