Rainbow Buddha Bowl With Quinoa

Experience a burst of color and nutrition with this Rainbow Buddha Bowl With Quinoa. This vibrant and nourishing grain bowl is expertly packed with colorful vegetables, plant-based protein, and healthy fats. It is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a wholesome lunch or a light yet satisfying dinner that fuels the body and delights the senses.

Save

The heart of this bowl lies in its variety. By combining fluffy quinoa with crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and creamy avocado, you create a symphony of textures. The creamy tahini dressing ties everything together with a zesty, nutty finish that makes every bite memorable.

Ingredients

• Grains: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups water; 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Protein: 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or drained canned chickpeas)
• Vegetables: 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup cucumber, sliced; 1 cup fresh baby spinach
• Healthy Fats & Toppings: 1 ripe avocado, sliced; 2 tablespoons toasted pumpkin seeds; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• Dressing: 3 tablespoons tahini; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey; 2 tablespoons water (more as needed); 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cook complete meals by frying, sautéing, simmering, and boiling with easy nonstick cleanup every day.

Check price on Amazon

Instructions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups water to a boil. Add quinoa and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Step 2

While quinoa is cooking, prepare all vegetables: slice red cabbage, carrots, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, and avocado.

Step 3

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup or honey, minced garlic, water, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Add more water as needed to reach desired consistency.

Step 4

To assemble, divide quinoa evenly among 4 bowls. Arrange chickpeas, red cabbage, carrots, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, spinach, and avocado in colorful sections on top of the quinoa.

Step 5

Drizzle each bowl with tahini dressing. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds.

Step 6

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For efficient meal prepping, you can prepare the quinoa and chop the vegetables in advance. Leftover bowls can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, though it is best to store the avocado and dressing separately to maintain freshness and prevent browning.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This bowl is highly versatile. You can swap the chickpeas with grilled tofu or tempeh for a different protein source. For added warmth and nutrition, consider incorporating roasted sweet potato or steamed broccoli into the vegetable mix.

Serviervorschläge

Serve the bowls immediately while the quinoa is still slightly warm. If you prefer a spicy kick, add a dash of sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes to the tahini dressing before drizzling. This meal pairs wonderfully with a fresh glass of lemon water.

Save

With 410 calories and 13g of protein per serving, this Rainbow Buddha Bowl With Quinoa is a powerhouse of nutrition that doesn't compromise on flavor. Enjoy the vibrant textures and clean ingredients of this wholesome fusion dish.

Chop vegetables, slice meats, and prep ingredients easily for everyday cooking and homemade recipes.

Check price on Amazon

Questions & Answers

→ What makes a buddha bowl different from regular grain bowls?

Buddha bowls traditionally feature a base of grains surrounded by colorful vegetables arranged in sections, plus protein and healthy fats. The key is the visual presentation with ingredients placed in separate mounds rather than mixed together, creating a rainbow effect that's both beautiful and practical for balanced portions.

→ Can I make this bowl ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely! Prepare the quinoa, roast or chop vegetables, and cook chickpeas up to 3 days ahead. Store components separately in airtight containers. Assemble bowls when ready to eat, adding fresh avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

→ What other proteins work well in this bowl?

Beyond chickpeas, try grilled tofu cubes, roasted tempeh, baked falafel, or even shredded chicken for non-vegetarian options. Hard-boiled eggs, edamame, or white beans also provide excellent protein. Choose options that complement the tahini dressing and don't overpower the fresh vegetables.

→ How do I prevent the avocado from browning in leftovers?

Store sliced avocado separately with a squeeze of lemon juice, or keep whole avocados and slice fresh when serving. If storing pre-assembled bowls, place avocado on top and press plastic wrap directly against the surface to minimize oxidation. Alternatively, add avocado right before eating.

→ Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Certainly! Brown rice, farro, barley, bulgur, or millet make excellent bases. Cook grains according to package directions and adjust cooking times accordingly. Each grain brings slightly different texture and flavor profiles while maintaining the bowl's nutritional balance and satisfying heartiness.

→ Is the tahini dressing necessary or are there alternatives?

The tahini dressing adds creamy richness and ties the flavors together, but alternatives work too. Try avocado-cilantro dressing, lemon-herb vinaigrette, or peanut sauce for different flavor profiles. The key is using a creamy element that coats the grains and vegetables while complementing their fresh flavors.