We know life can be busy, and finding time to prepare nutritious meals can sometimes feel like a daunting task. That's why we teamed with Bels, known as @crueltyfreewithbels, to create this super easy, antioxidant-packed quinoa rice bowl recipe that you can whip up in just 5 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even a hearty snack, this rice bowl is not only brimming with vibrant flavours but also loaded with ingredients that are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory.
Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a delicious, satisfying meal that will leave you feeling nourished and energised. Let's dive into the recipe and see how easy it is to make a wholesome vegan rice bowl in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pre-cooked quinoa rice (or just quinoa or rice)
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2-3 pre-made sweet potato falafel (store-bought or prepared in advance)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Lemon wedge for squeezing on top
Instructions
- Prep the Base:
- If you have pre-cooked quinoa rice, you’re ready to go. If not, quickly heat it up in the microwave or on the stove.
- Season and Sauté:
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pan, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Sprinkle turmeric, paprika, and cumin over the mushrooms and garlic, stirring well to combine.
- Add the sweet potato falafel to the pan and heat them through, turning occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble the Bowl:
- In a large bowl, layer the quinoa rice as the base.
- Arrange the avocado slices on one side of the bowl.
- Add the chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, and chopped walnuts around the bowl.
- Place the seasoned mushrooms and sweet potato falafel on top.
- Season and Serve:
- Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top if desired.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Squeeze a lemon wedge over the bowl for a fresh burst of flavour if you like.
Now it's ready for you to chomp!
Nutritional Benefits
- Sweet Potato Falafel: Rich in fibre, vitamins A and C, and loaded with antioxidants.
- Quinoa Rice: High in protein, fibre, and essential amino acids.
- Avocado: Provides healthy fats, fibre, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.
- Mushrooms: Low in calories and high in antioxidants like selenium.
- Pumpkin Seeds and Walnuts: Excellent sources of healthy fats, protein, and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.
- Chickpeas: Packed with protein, fibre, and essential nutrients.
- Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound.
- Paprika and Cumin: Both spices have anti-inflammatory properties and add depth of flavour.
This power bowl combines a variety of textures and flavours, making it a delicious and nutritious meal you can enjoy in just 5 minutes. Enjoy your antioxidant and anti-inflammatory-packed meal!
About Bels
I’ve been vegan for over a year now (was veggie a long time before that which I think is very relatable!) and already feel so much HEALTHIER! The perks of a plant based diet are incredible & the fact we aren’t taking from the factory farmed animals is a huge plus. Animal welfare is the main reason I switched from veggie to vegan and I definitely won’t be switching back anytime soon!
Follow her for more easy plant-based recipes: https://www.instagram.com/crueltyfreewithb/