What is a Buddha Bowl, and how do I make one?
A Buddha Bowl is healthy parfait of greens, grains, fats, and proteins. It can be crafted for your favorite carnivore, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten free friend, or altered to fit any diet preference. The best part is that there is no measuring or recipe-following — the magic is in using what you have in your fridge! Follow this simple guide to put together a satisfying and healthy dinner tonight!
All About That (Green) Base!
The key to a bangin' bowl is a crunchy green foundation. I usually prefer a simple bowl of raw romaine lettuce or baby spinach — both of which are very mild. You can also use kale (raw for a crunch, or cooked if want to take away the bitter bite!), spicy raw arugula, or mixed spring greens. If you can, avoid bagged lettuce and greens, which are usually precut and not very fresh.
Salty Sides
One of my favorite parts of a Buddha bowl is the addition of something a little salty. These add-ins pack in flavor without adding much fat or calories (we like to save that for the good stuff!). My favorites include banana peppers, hot/sweet jalapeños, roasted red peppers, marinated mushrooms, and black olives. I like to look for these jarred items without preservatives, but this can be a challenge. Trader Joe's has some of the best low-cost and preservative free salty sides!
Greens and Grains
When I make a Buddha bowl for dinner, I'm usually in need of a hearty meal. It helps to add a combo of whole grains, nutrient dense greens and veggies to fill you up! Try quinoa cooked in vegetable or chicken broth and mixed with black beans, brown rice with sautéed spinach or swish chard, or even crispy oven roasted potatoes! Feel free to throw in some raw carrots and cucumbers, or even sautéed onions if you have them on hand.
Protein, 'Bro
The options are endless for protein toppers! As a vegetarian/pescatarian, I love to switch it up with sautéed tofu, blackened shrimp, roasted chickpeas, veggie burgers, and even hummus. If you prefer meat, try chicken sausage, blackened or roasted chicken, or even steak tips. If you can, choose locally sourced and humanely raised meats and fish!
Top, Top, Top it Like it's HOT
Buddha Bowls are usually so packed with flavor that they need little to no dressing. But that doesn't mean that we can't jazz it up with some healthy fats! Try a dollop of guacamole or sour cream, a fried egg, or a drizzle of Goddess (tahini-based) dressing! These toppings bring your bowl to LIFE!
Folks, ASSEMBLE!
This is the fun part! Arrange your bowl with the greens at the bottom.....then play! Create a pattern with your food, or just mix it all together. There is no WRONG way to make a Buddha Bowl. As always, don't hesitate to get creative with what you have in your fridge. After all, we never said the bowl couldn't be edible!
