Name: Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Buddha Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups cauliflower florets; 1 large red onion, diced; 1 large red pepper, diced; 2 cups garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup dark balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 cups quinoa, cooked; 4 cups raw spinach; 1 small avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced; 1/2 cup sliced almonds

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If you’re on the hunt for a nourishing, delicious, and visually stunning meal, look no further! The Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Buddha Bowl is a vibrant, wholesome dish that brings together the rich flavors of roasted vegetables, protein-packed quinoa, and creamy avocado. This bowl is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients that will keep you energized throughout the day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick dinner option, this recipe checks all the boxes.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes the Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Buddha Bowl truly special is its versatility and balance. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors, from the crispy roasted veggies to the nutty quinoa and creamy avocado. The dark balsamic vinegar and honey dressing adds a perfect touch of sweetness and tang, elevating the taste profile of the dish. Plus, it’s completely customizable! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or grains to make it your own.

Ingredients at a Glance

To create this flavorful bowl, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups cauliflower florets
1 large red onion, diced
1 large red pepper, diced
2 cups garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup dark balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
2 cups quinoa, cooked
4 cups raw spinach
1 small avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
1/2 cup sliced almonds

Must-Have Equipment

To whip up this delightful bowl, you will need the following equipment:

Large baking sheet – for roasting the vegetables.
Medium saucepan – to cook the quinoa.
Mixing bowl – for combining ingredients and preparing the dressing.
Spatula – to toss the vegetables and serve the bowl.

How to Prepare Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Buddha Bowl

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your vegetables roast perfectly, becoming caramelized and tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

On a large baking sheet, spread out the broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, diced red onion, and diced red pepper. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender. Stir halfway through for even cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Quinoa

While the vegetables are roasting, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dark balsamic vinegar and honey until well combined.

Step 6: Assemble the Buddha Bowl

In a large bowl or individual serving bowls, layer the spinach, cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and garbanzo beans. Top with diced avocado, minced parsley, and sliced almonds.

Step 7: Drizzle with Dressing

Generously drizzle the balsamic vinegar dressing over the assembled bowls. Give everything a gentle toss to combine before serving.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

If you have specific dietary needs, consider these substitutes:

Quinoa: Substitute with brown rice or farro for a different grain option.
Garbanzo beans: Use black beans or lentils for a protein alternative.
Honey: Agave syrup or maple syrup can be used for a vegan option.
Spinach: Kale or arugula can be substituted for a different leafy green.

Avoid These Traps

When preparing your Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Buddha Bowl, watch out for these common pitfalls:

Overcooking the quinoa: Ensure you follow the cooking instructions to avoid mushy quinoa.
Not seasoning enough: Season your vegetables generously for the best flavor.
Skipping the dressing: The dressing is crucial for tying all the flavors together, so don’t skip it!

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Buddha Bowl fresh, follow these tips:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to prevent sogginess.
Reheat the roasted vegetables before serving if you prefer them warm.

Common Qs About Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Buddha Bowl

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly. Just ensure to use a plant-based honey substitute if desired.

Can I prepare this Buddha bowl in advance?

Absolutely! You can roast the vegetables and cook the quinoa in advance. Assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat, adding fresh ingredients like avocado just before serving.

What can I add to increase the protein content?

For additional protein, consider adding tofu, tempeh, or a scoop of your favorite protein powder mixed into the dressing.

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to gather your ingredients and dive into the kitchen! The Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Buddha Bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Each bite is a reminder of how nourishing and delicious whole foods can be. Embrace the colors, the flavors, and the health benefits this bowl brings. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and remember that the best meals are the ones shared with loved ones. Happy cooking!