Save to Pinterest This nourishing Buddha Bowl comes together with vibrant roasted vegetables, spiced chickpeas, and fluffy quinoa, finished with creamy avocado and tangy tahini dressing. When I want a wholesome and colorful dinner that feels like a celebration in a bowl, this is my go to recipe.
From the first time I whipped up this bowl for a meal prep Sunday I fell in love with how versatile and cheerful it is. Now I crave it anytime I need a mood boost at the table.
Ingredients
- Quinoa: One cup uncooked makes a hearty base. Look for white quinoa for the fluffiest texture or tri color for more visual interest.
- Water: Two cups are just right for perfectly cooked grains. Use filtered if your tap water is hard.
- Salt: Adds flavor to both the quinoa and roasted veggies. Flaky sea salt enhances every layer.
- Sweet potato: Chopped small to roast evenly and add natural sweetness. Choose one that's firm with smooth skin.
- Red bell pepper: Gives crunch and bright color. Pick a pepper that is heavy for its size.
- Zucchini: Adds moisture and green goodness. Smaller ones tend to be more tender.
- Broccoli florets: Bring fiber and subtle bitterness. Go for bright green heads with tight florets.
- Olive oil: Helps vegetables crisp up and carries spices. Extra virgin gives a rich taste.
- Smoked paprika: Adds that hint of smoky depth. Spanish smoked paprika is especially fragrant.
- Ground cumin: Lends earthy warmth and pulls the bowl together. Check for fresh fragrant cumin in the spice aisle.
- Chickpeas: The protein powerhouse of the dish. Rinse them well for the crispiest texture.
- Ground coriander: Offers citrusy notes that wake up the chickpeas.
- Cayenne pepper: Optional for subtle heat. A fresh tin makes all the difference.
- Avocado: Brings creaminess and healthy fats. Choose one that yields slightly to gentle pressure.
- Red cabbage: Beautifully vibrant and full of crunch. Slice thin with a sharp knife for best texture.
- Carrot: Shreds tuck in crunch and sweetness. A firm carrot will slice or julienne cleanly.
- Cilantro: Fresh chopped leaves for brightness. Use just the leaves and tender stems.
- Tahini: The soul of the dressing rich and nutty. Look for tahini that is smooth and pourable.
- Lemon juice: Adds tartness to balance rich flavors. Freshly squeezed is best.
- Maple syrup or agave: Touch of sweetness to round out the dressing. Use whichever you have.
- Garlic: Adds bold flavor. Mince as fine as possible so it disappears into the sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa:
- Combine quinoa water and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat then reduce to a bare simmer cover and cook undisturbed for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it stand covered for five more minutes so the grains finish cooking with steam. Fluff with a fork for maximum lightness.
- Roast the Vegetables:
- Arrange sweet potato red bell pepper zucchini and broccoli on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika cumin salt and pepper. Toss with your hands until every piece is glistening and evenly coated. Roast in a hot oven until edges brown and sugars caramelize about 25 to 30 minutes. Stir halfway through for even roasting.
- Roast the Chickpeas:
- Pat chickpeas dry then toss with olive oil cumin coriander cayenne if using and salt. Spread out on a separate sheet in a single layer. Roast until they turn golden crisp and almost pop about 20 to 25 minutes. Shake the pan halfway to prevent sticking.
- Make the Tahini Dressing:
- In a small bowl whisk tahini lemon juice water maple syrup garlic and a pinch of salt until silky and pourable. If the dressing is too thick drizzle in more water a little at a time until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide quinoa into four bowls. Arrange generous scoops of roasted vegetables on one side then add crispy chickpeas. Fan out avocado slices and tuck in ribbons of red cabbage and carrot. Drizzle tahini dressing over everything and scatter fresh cilantro on top for a fragrant finish.
Save to Pinterest Broccoli is my favorite part because it soaks up the smoky spices and roasts into golden crisp tips. The first time I made this recipe for my family my niece announced it was the best dinner she ever had and now it has become our birthday request standard.
Storage Tips
If prepping ahead store each element separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Keep the avocado and cilantro separate and slice fresh before serving so everything tastes bright and fresh. The dressing may thicken in the fridge so whisk in a splash of water before drizzling.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use brown rice farro or couscous instead of quinoa for a heartier or chewier grain base. Swap in whatever vegetables are in season such as cauliflower Brussels sprouts or butternut squash. Sunflower seed butter works as a nut free tahini alternative though the flavor will be earthier.
Save to Pinterest Serving Suggestions
Buddha bowls are meant to be flexibly assembled so let everyone build their own masterpiece at the table. Add toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch or tuck in pickled onions for zing. Pair with lemon iced tea for a refreshing contrast.
Cultural and Historical Context
Buddha bowls draw inspiration from wholesome bowl style meals found in many cultures from Japan's donburi to Middle Eastern mezze platters. The name evokes balance and nourishment just like the image of a full round bowl cradled in two hands. These bowls have roots in the plant forward eating movement that celebrates color variety and mindful nutrition.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can another grain replace quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa with brown rice, farro, or couscous to match your preference or pantry ingredients.
- → How can I add extra crunch?
Add toasted pumpkin seeds or sesame seeds before serving for extra texture and flavor in the bowl.
- → What is a good drink pairing?
This dish pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or fresh mint tea to complement its vibrant flavors.
- → Is this bowl suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, the bowl is naturally gluten-free as written. Always check product labels to confirm all ingredients are gluten-free.
- → How do I adjust dressing consistency?
For a thinner tahini dressing, add water one teaspoon at a time, whisking until you reach your desired texture.
- → What allergens should I be aware of?
This bowl contains sesame from tahini. Check labels for hidden allergens in packaged ingredients to stay safe.