Gluten-Free Vegan Buddha Bowl
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (or a grain of your choice)
- 1 cup mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or kale)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
For the Roasted Veggies:
- 1 cup sweet potato, cubed
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or agave)
- 1 tablespoon water (or more for desired consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Sesame seeds or hemp seeds
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- Sliced radishes
- Sriracha or hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
Preparation
Step 1: Roast the Veggies
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the cubed sweet potato and cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the veggies on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, water, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- If the dressing is too thick, add a little more water until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 3: Assemble the Buddha Bowl
- Start by placing the cooked quinoa or brown rice in the bottom of a bowl as the base.
- Arrange the mixed greens, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, avocado slices, and red cabbage around the grain in sections.
- Add the roasted sweet potato and cauliflower to the bowl.
Step 4: Drizzle the Dressing
- Drizzle the tahini dressing over the bowl ingredients.
- Add any optional toppings like sesame seeds, chopped herbs, radishes, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Mix the ingredients together if desired, or enjoy each component separately with the creamy dressing.
- Serve immediately for a fresh and nutritious meal.
Tips for Success
- Grain Substitutes: Use any gluten-free grain like millet, farro, or rice, depending on what you have available.
- Roasting Veggies: Feel free to roast other veggies like brussels sprouts, broccoli, or bell peppers for more variety.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the veggies and quinoa ahead of time to make this a quick, healthy meal.
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add a plant-based protein like chickpeas, lentils, or tofu.
- Flavorful Add-ins: Toss some olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or pickled onions in for added flavor.
- Sweet Addition: Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet touch.
Why You’ll Love This Buddha Bowl
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with a variety of vegetables, healthy fats, and plant-based protein.
- Customizable: Easy to swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or pantry.
- Satisfying and Filling: A balanced meal that’s both refreshing and hearty.
Enjoy your gluten-free vegan Buddha bowl! 🥗🌱
