Dine-Out Dupe: Fresh Buddha Bowl

Creating a Buddha bowl similar to the one served at Fresh restaurant in Toronto is a great idea. Here’s a recipe to help you replicate the delicious dish at home:

Ingredients for the Buddha Bowl:

For the Base:

• 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice (or a mix of both)
• 2 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, kale, arugula, etc.)

Roasted Vegetables:

• 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Protein Options (choose one or a combination):

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas or black beans (seasoned with a pinch of cumin and chili powder)
• 1 cup marinated tofu or tempeh (cut into cubes)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (if you want extra grains)
• Grilled chicken (optional, if you eat meat)

Toppings and Dressing:

• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup raw or roasted nuts or seeds (e.g., pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds)
• 2 tablespoons tahini or your favorite dressing
• Fresh lemon or lime wedges
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Roasted Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the diced sweet potato, sliced carrot, broccoli florets, and cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir them halfway through the cooking time for even roasting.
3. Cook the Grains and Protein: While the vegetables are roasting, cook the quinoa or brown rice according to the package instructions. Also, prepare your protein option if needed (cook chickpeas or black beans if using).
4. Assemble the Buddha Bowl: In individual serving bowls or a large salad bowl, start with a base of mixed salad greens and cooked quinoa or brown rice.
5. Add the Roasted Vegetables: Once the roasted vegetables are ready, place them on top of the greens and grains.
6. Add Protein: Choose your protein option(s) and add them to the bowl.
7. Top It Off: Arrange the sliced avocado and sprinkle the nuts or seeds over the bowl.
8. Drizzle with Dressing: Finish the Buddha bowl with a drizzle of tahini or your favorite dressing. If you like, squeeze some fresh lemon or lime juice over the top for extra brightness.
9. Garnish: If desired, garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
10. Enjoy: Serve your homemade Buddha bowl immediately while it’s still warm, and mix everything together before eating to enjoy all the flavors in one delicious bowl.

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables, grains, and protein sources. The beauty of a Buddha bowl is its versatility, so have fun experimenting with different combinations! —Vita Daily