Imagine a vibrant, nutrient-packed meal that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Spring Buddha Bowl isn't just a recipe—it's a refreshing journey of colors, textures, and zesty flavors that will revolutionize your lunch routine. With its perfect balance of protein-rich quinoa, creamy avocado, and bright lemony white beans, this dish is about to become your new obsession for healthy, delicious eating.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps to remove any bitterness from the quinoa.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the white beans. In a small bowl, combine the drained and rinsed can of white beans with the juice of 1 lemon. Stir well to coat the beans in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- After the quinoa has finished cooking, remove it from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the quinoa with a fork.
- In two serving bowls, start layering the ingredients. Begin with a generous portion of the cooked quinoa as the base.
- Next, add a handful of mixed greens on top of the quinoa in each bowl.
- Distribute the lemony white beans evenly over the mixed greens in both bowls.
- Top each bowl with sliced avocado for added creaminess and flavor.
- Finally, season each bowl with additional salt and pepper to taste, and drizzle with a little extra lemon juice if desired.
- Serve the Spring Buddha Bowl immediately, enjoying the fresh flavors and vibrant colors.
Tips
- Quinoa Perfection: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural coating (saponin) which can taste bitter. Use a fine-mesh strainer for best results.
- Broth Boost: Cooking quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water adds depth and richness to the base of your bowl.
- Bean Preparation: Let your white beans marinate in lemon juice for a few extra minutes to enhance their flavor profile.
- Avocado Hack: Slice avocado just before serving to prevent browning and maintain its fresh, creamy texture.
- Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add roasted vegetables, nuts, or seeds to create your own unique variation.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for quick, healthy lunches throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
