When it comes to cooking during the week, speed and convenience are key. That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 delicious and easy-to-make bowl recipes that can be ready in no time! From savory teriyaki chicken to creamy avocado and from spicy shrimp to nutritious lentil bowls, these recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these bowls are perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast and tasty. So go ahead, grab a bowl, and dig in! In this article, we’ll be sharing all 20 recipes with you, along with tips and variations to make them your own.
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this Asian-inspired dish, featuring tender chicken, flavorful teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice. This Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with the teriyaki glaze.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve the chicken over a bed of white rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Buddha Bowl with Tahini Dressing
This recipe brings together a vibrant mix of roasted vegetables, creamy tahini dressing, and crunchy whole grains for a nourishing and satisfying meal. Perfect as a quick lunch or dinner, this Buddha bowl is a flavorful and healthy option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 cup mixed roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and sweet potatoes)
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped scallions, sesame seeds, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the mixed vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Buddha bowls by placing cooked brown rice at the bottom, followed by roasted vegetables and drizzling with tahini dressing.
5. Add optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Grain Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl that combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, spicy peppers, and nutty quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup roasted red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 8-10 minutes or until pink.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted red bell pepper, and chopped jalapeño.
4. Add roasted shrimp to the bowl and top with diced avocado.
5. Squeeze lime juice over the ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chipotle Black Bean and Quinoa Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with protein-rich black beans, nutty quinoa, and a hint of smoky chipotle peppers. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin and chopped chipotle peppers; cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine the cooked black beans and quinoa with the skillet mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with your choice of avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Beef Bibimbap Bowl
Savor the flavors of Korea with this classic beef bibimbap bowl, a harmonious balance of savory beef, crunchy vegetables, and fluffy rice. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil; stir-fry for an additional minute.
3. Cook the mixed vegetables according to your preference (e.g., slightly tender).
4. Divide cooked rice into bowls. Top with beef mixture, then garnish with a fried egg and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt Acai Bowl
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious Greek yogurt acai bowl, packed with antioxidants and protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 packet of frozen acai berries
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tablespoon sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Instructions:
1. Blend the frozen acai berries with 1/4 cup water until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, honey, and mixed berries.
3. Spoon the yogurt mixture into a bowl, followed by the blended acai berry mixture.
4. Top with sliced almonds, shredded coconut, and chia seeds.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Coconut Curry Chickpea Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with tender chickpeas, aromatic coconut curry, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 medium-sized onions
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
– Brown rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve over brown rice or naan bread, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Falafel Bowl with Hummus
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this vibrant and nutritious bowl, packed with crispy falafel, creamy hummus, and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup water
– Hummus (store-bought or homemade)
– Roasted red bell peppers, sliced
– Chopped cucumber
– Cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, scallions, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. Add flour and water; process until mixture forms a thick paste.
4. Using wet hands, shape into 8-10 patties. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Assemble bowls by placing falafel patties on the bottom, followed by hummus, roasted red bell peppers, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tex-Mex Burrito Bowl
Get ready for a flavorful and filling meal with this Tex-Mex Burrito Bowl recipe! This dish combines the best of both worlds – the warmth of Mexico and the boldness of Texas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8 oz cooked brown rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. In a separate pot, warm the cooked brown rice according to package instructions.
4. Combine the black beans, red bell pepper, and frozen corn kernels in the skillet with the beef mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Assemble the burrito bowls by placing a scoop of warmed rice at the bottom, followed by a spoonful of the beef and bean mixture, and finishing with any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Tofu Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with crispy tofu, savory peanut sauce, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons of peanut oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup of creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions, bean sprouts, and sliced bell peppers for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together peanut oil, garlic, ginger, and salt.
3. Add tofu and marinate for at least 10 minutes or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Bake tofu for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
5. In a small saucepan, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until smooth.
6. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Assemble bowls by placing tofu on top of chopped scallions, bean sprouts, and sliced bell peppers. Drizzle with peanut sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Sweet Potato and Kale Bowl
This vibrant bowl combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of kale, all wrapped up in a nutritious package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Add kale to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted (about 3-5 minutes).
6. To assemble the bowls, place roasted sweet potatoes on a plate, top with wilted kale, and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sesame Ginger Salmon Rice Bowl
This recipe combines the flavors of sesame, ginger, and soy sauce with succulent salmon and fluffy rice, all in one delicious bowl. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
4. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the sesame-ginger mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. To assemble bowls, place cooked rice in the bottom, followed by a piece of salmon, and garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Pasta Salad Bowl
Transform your pasta salad game with this vibrant Pesto Pasta Salad Bowl! Fresh basil, creamy pesto, and juicy cherry tomatoes come together to create a light and refreshing summer side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto and 2 tablespoons of warm water until smooth.
3. Add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, basil, and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Cauliflower Bowl with Blue Cheese Dressing
Transform cauliflower into a flavorful, spicy bowl that’s reminiscent of buffalo wings! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the bold flavors of blue cheese dressing and hot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup blue cheese dressing
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and butter until well coated.
4. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Toss with blue cheese dressing and sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Tofu and Broccoli Bowl
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with crispy teriyaki tofu, steamed broccoli, and served over a bed of fluffy white rice. With its sweet and savory sauce, this dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups of broccoli florets
– 1 cup of cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup of teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, vegetable oil, and grated ginger.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the sauce mixture and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
4. Steam broccoli florets until tender.
5. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
6. Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
7. Pan-fry the tofu in a little oil until crispy on all sides.
8. Serve the teriyaki tofu over steamed broccoli and a bed of cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sushi-Inspired Tuna Poke Bowl
Experience the flavors of Japan with this quick and easy tuna poke bowl recipe. With only a few ingredients, you can recreate the vibrant colors and bold flavors of sushi at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sashimi-grade tuna (yellowfin or bigeye), cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice or sushi-grade short-grain rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the tuna cubes to the marinade and stir gently to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle scallions over the top of the tuna.
5. Serve the tuna poke over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (marinating time not included)
Cajun Shrimp and Andouille Sausage Bowl
A flavorful and spicy one-pot dish that combines succulent shrimp, crispy Andouille sausage, and creamy rice. This hearty bowl is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 slices of Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Spinach Power Bowl
Nourish your body with this flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with the goodness of lentils, spinach, and aromatic spices. This recipe is a perfect blend of protein-rich legumes, vitamin-packed greens, and wholesome grains.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
– Optional: feta cheese, sliced avocado, and/or toasted almonds for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water/broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes or until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, and spinach leaves. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until spinach wilts.
4. Fluff cooked lentils with a fork and add to the skillet mixture. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve over cooked brown rice or quinoa, topped with your choice of feta cheese, sliced avocado, and/or toasted almonds.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Miso Glazed Eggplant Rice Bowl
This flavorful and nutritious bowl combines the richness of miso glaze with the tender sweetness of eggplant, served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup short-grain white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
4. Brush the eggplant slices with the miso glaze and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Assemble the bowls by placing a scoop of cooked rice at the bottom, topping with roasted eggplant, and garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Breakfast Smoothie Bowl with Granola
Breakfast Smoothie Bowl with Granola is the perfect way to kick-start your day. This recipe combines the best of both worlds – a refreshing and healthy smoothie topped with crunchy granola and fresh fruits.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Fresh fruit (such as sliced strawberries or blueberries)
Instructions:
1. Blend the banana, mixed berries, and Greek yogurt in a blender until smooth.
2. Add honey and blend until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, chia seeds, and chopped almonds to create the granola topping.
4. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with the granola mixture.
5. Garnish with fresh fruit of your choice.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fuel up quickly and deliciously with these 20 quick bowl recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From savory teriyaki chicken to sweet potato and kale, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making a Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Grain Bowl or a Mediterranean Falafel Bowl with Hummus. Or go for a global-inspired dish like Korean Beef Bibimbap Bowl or Thai Peanut Tofu Bowl. With these easy and nutritious bowl recipes, you’ll be dishing up flavorful meals in no time!
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