Buddha Bowls Recipe

Buddha bowls are vibrant, balanced meals filled with a variety of flavors and textures. Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch, they’re as delicious as they are nutritious. This recipe offers a base of grains, a variety of roasted and fresh vegetables, and a creamy tahini dressing. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite ingredients!

Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Small whisk
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Ingredients:
For the Bowl:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa, rice, or farro
• 1 sweet potato, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mixed greens or spinach
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons water (or more for desired consistency)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Roasted Vegetables:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Toss the diced sweet potato, broccoli florets, and chickpeas with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and golden.
2. Cook the Grains:
   • While the vegetables are roasting, cook your quinoa, rice, or farro according to the package instructions.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, minced garlic, and water. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed, and season with salt to taste.
4. Assemble the Buddha Bowls:
   • Divide the cooked grains among two bowls as the base.
   • Layer with roasted vegetables, chickpeas, mixed greens, shredded carrots, and avocado slices.
   • Sprinkle with pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
5. Drizzle and Serve:
   • Generously drizzle the tahini dressing over each bowl. Serve immediately.

Presentation Ideas:

• Arrange ingredients in neat sections for a visually striking presentation.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped fresh parsley.

Tips:

• Add protein with grilled chicken, tofu, or a boiled egg.
• Swap the dressing with hummus or your favorite vinaigrette for variety.
• Store leftovers in separate containers to keep them fresh for up to 3 days.

Buddha bowls are a feast for the eyes and the palate, offering endless possibilities for customization. This recipe is your gateway to healthy eating, blending bold flavors with wholesome ingredients. Make it your own and enjoy a bowl of delicious nourishment!