These healthy bowls of delicious and nutritious food are often called Buddha Bowls.  I’m not sure why, but I have read because the bowls offer a balanced meal that includes protein, greens, grains, fat, fibre and vegetables, or that the shape of the large mound of food resembles a buddha belly.  I’ve also heard them called Zen bowls.  

I eat one of these health-giving bowls a few times a month and really should have them more often as they honestly are so delicious and satiating, and are different every time I make one.  

How to make a Buddha Bowl:

You will need a big bowl, one that you might use to make a large salad.  

·      Base-cover the bottom of the bowl with mixed greens, and a grain like quinoa or brown rice.

·      Vegetables -roasted vegetables like cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, peppers or zucchini. I often add chopped cucumber and shredded carrots.     Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes are a delicious option.

·      Protein -lentils, tofu, lots of sunflower and pumpkin seeds.  I use these sources because I follow a plant-based diet, but you can also add a boiled egg, fish, or other protein of your choice.  

·      Fat-slices of avocado, or a healthy oil like olive oil in salad dressing.  

·      I usually drizzle a tahini (sesame seed paste) dressing over the entire bowl.  Tahini is high in protein. 

That’s it.  There is very little prep time involved if you already have some roasted veggies, cooked lentils, or rice in the fridge.  If not, it doesn’t take long to toss some veggies in olive oil and salt and roast them. 

This meal is so yummy and satisfying;  I’ve never been able to finish a bowl and always have leftovers. 

Be well.

Anita