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Baja Grain Bowls

Vibrant Baja Grain Bowls: A Healthy Meal Prep Delight

These Baja Grain Bowls are a colorful and nutritious meal prep option packed with flavors and textures.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice Alternatively, quinoa can be used.
  • 1 cup cooked tri-color quinoa Adjust to taste.
For the Roasted Veggies
  • 20 oz sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed Chicken thighs can substitute.
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil Avocado oil works well too.
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ancho chili powder
  • to taste cayenne pepper Omit for a milder version.
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
For the Protein
  • 1 14.5 oz can black beans, drained Substitute with pinto beans if preferred.
For the Fresh Ingredients
  • 1 1/4 cups corn (raw or cooked) Frozen corn is a good alternative.
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion Green onions can be used for a milder flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 1/2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • 1 medium garlic clove, minced Omit for a milder dressing.
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup Skip for a sugar-free option.
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro Substitute parsley if preferred.

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • mixing bowl
  • food processor
  • microwave-safe bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with non-stick spray.
  2. Combine cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, ancho chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat, then spread on the baking sheet.
  3. Roast sweet potatoes for 15 minutes, toss, then roast for an additional 10 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
  4. In a food processor, blend olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, honey, and fresh cilantro until smooth.
  5. Warm black beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Assemble in large bowls starting with brown rice and tri-color quinoa, then layer with sweet potatoes, corn, bell peppers, avocado, red onion, and warmed black beans.
  7. Drizzle with cilantro lime dressing and serve with extra dressing on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 12gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For meal prep, store components separately and assemble when ready to enjoy.

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