Save to Pinterest A vibrant, protein-packed bowl featuring plant-based meat alternatives, fresh vegetables, and bold, globally inspired seasonings. Perfect for a satisfying, wholesome meal.
I first made this colorful plant-based bowl for a weeknight dinner when I wanted something quick but nourishing. The combination of flavors and textures made everyone go for seconds, and now it&s a regular part of our rotation.
Ingredients
- Plant-Based Protein: 400 g plant-based ground meat (soy, pea, or fava bean based), 1 tbsp olive oil
- Seasoning Blend: 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- Bowl Base & Toppings: 200 g cooked brown rice or quinoa, 1 large avocado (sliced), 1 medium carrot (julienned), 1 small cucumber (thinly sliced), 100 g red cabbage (shredded), 100 g cherry tomatoes (halved), 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped), 1 lime (cut into wedges)
- Sauce: 3 tbsp vegan mayonnaise, 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste), 1 tsp lime juice
Instructions
- Sauté Protein:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the plant-based ground meat and cook for 3–4 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add Seasonings:
- Add minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, coriander, salt, pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Finish Meat:
- Stir in soy sauce, cook another 2 minutes until the protein is well coated and heated through. Remove from heat.
- Make Sauce:
- Whisk together vegan mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl.
- Assemble Bowls:
- Divide rice or quinoa among 4 bowls. Top with seasoned plant-based meat.
- Add Toppings:
- Arrange avocado, carrot, cucumber, red cabbage, and cherry tomatoes around the protein.
- Finish & Serve:
- Drizzle with spicy mayo sauce. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest We love enjoying this bowl for casual family dinners. It&s become one of our favorites when everyone wants something hearty yet healthy.
Swap & Customize
Try using seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or radishes, or switch the grain for cauliflower rice if you prefer lower carbs. Edamame or toasted seeds add extra crunch.
Nutrition
Each serving provides approximately 410 calories, 19 g fat, 39 g carbohydrates, and 23 g protein. Feel free to adjust ingredient amounts to match nutritional goals.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp Sauvignon Blanc or iced green tea. Lime wedges add freshness just before serving.
Save to Pinterest Finish with an extra sprinkle of cilantro for color. Enjoy your plant-based bowl fresh for the best taste and texture.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What plant-based meat works best?
Ground protein from soy, pea, or fava bean delivers the right texture and absorbs flavors well.
- → Can I use other grains for the base?
Absolutely! Try quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a lighter alternative.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
Reduce or omit sriracha in the sauce, and adjust chili powder as preferred for milder or bolder flavor.
- → Any suggested vegetable substitutions?
Swap in bell peppers, radishes, edamame, or any seasonal veggies for added color and crunch.
- → Is this bowl gluten-free?
Yes, if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to season the meat mixture.
- → What tools are needed?
A large skillet, spatula, cutting board, sharp knife, small bowl, and whisk are all useful.