The Buddha Bowl is a simple way to start and maintain a plant based diet! They’re easy to create, versatile, and delicious! Batch cook veggies and grains and alternate them throughout the week for multiple meals and dishes that won’t get boring.

1. Select a Base – This can be a grain or greens base or a mixture of two or more! Quinoa, rice, barley, millet, freekah, whole wheat pasta, spinach, kale or mixed greens can all be used to create a good base.
2. Choose Your Vegetables – this is where it gets fun! You can mix and match raw and cooked veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, squash, cucumber, onions, peppers, radishes, there are so many, but i will make a few good combo suggestions below to get you started.
3. Add a Protein – All plants have protein, but for staying full, and if you are exercising regularly to add a higher protein plant. Tempeh, seiten, tofu, soy curls, TVP, beans and legumes like garbanzos, black beans, pinto, etc. are all great options.
4. Sauce It Up! – this is where it gets really fun and interesting. Batch make a couple sauces a week or have some condiments ready to go for quick dressing of your bowl and to keep it interesting. You can buy ready-made sauces from the store or make your own. Condiments I keep around for sauce bases include tahini, tamari, hot sauce, sweet chili sauce, and more. You can also create larger batches of delicious sauces and keep in a jar throughout the week for quick dishes. Tahini garlic dressing, peanut sauce, the possibilities are endless.
5. Meal Prep & Plan – Plan ahead and batch cook before the week starts and you can throw bowls together with ease.

Some great combos for Buddha Bowls include:

• Fajita Bowls– Combine a base of rice, with grilled peppers and onions, add black beans or soy curls. Top with avocado, salsa, and hot sauce for a delicious and simple bowl.
• Tempeh & Sweet Potato Bowl – Combine a base of quinoa and fresh chopped spinach with roasted sweet potato, veggies and marinated tempeh, top with sesame seeds and a tahini dressing for a filling and tasty bowl.
• Tofu Stir Fry – Rice, grilled tofu, and assorted veggies topped with a peanut sauce make a delicious lunch or dinner option.
• Good Morning Bowl – Overnight oats topped with chia, hemp hearts and fresh fruit make a perfect start for the day!

These are just a few examples for building your own bowls!