Broccoli Buddha Bowl with Roasted Chickpeas Recipe
This hearty, plant-based Buddha Bowl is packed with roasted broccoli, crispy chickpeas, and fluffy quinoa, drizzled with a tangy dressing. It's a nutritious, flavorful meal that's as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Perfect for meal prep, this recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and full of texture. Customize it with your favorite greens or spices for a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant lunch option, this Buddha Bowl has you covered!
2heads of broccolimedium-size, cut into small florets
1canorganic chickpeasdrained
2handfulsbaby spinach or any of your favourite greens
4tablespoonsolive oil
1tablespoonsmoked paprika
pinchof salt
Sauce:
1tablespoonpeanut butter
2tablespoonstamari or soy sauce
1tablespoonmaple syrup
2tablespoonslime juice
1tablespoonrice vinegar
1clovegarlicminced
water if required
Instructions
Cook The Quinoa
Start by cooking the quinoa. It is very important to properly wash 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa before cooking. Use a fine-mesh strainer to rinse it under running water. If not rinsed well, quinoa can have a bitter taste.
To cook quinoa, use one part quinoa to two parts water. After rinsing, add it to a pan with water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat so the water is just simmering. Cook uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of your quinoa. Once the water has evaporated, remove the pan from heat, cover with a lid, and let it sit for 5 minutes. After that, fluff the quinoa with a fork and allow it to cool before adding it to the Buddha bowl.
Roast the Broccoli
While the quinoa is cooking, place the broccoli on a roasting tray. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss well and roast at 220°C for about 15 minutes.
2 heads of broccoli
Roast the Chickpeas
On a separate tray, add the chickpeas. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, add a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Mix well and roast at 220°C for around 15 minutes.
If using one oven, place the broccoli tray above the chickpeas to ensure even roasting.
Once done, remove both trays from the oven. Stir the chickpeas and return them to the oven for an additional 3 to 5 minutes on the grill/bake setting to crisp them up.
Make the Dressing
To prepare the dressing, combine all ingredients in a glass jar or a salad dressing mixer. Shake well until fully combined.
pinch of salt, 1 tablespoon peanut butter, 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 clove garlic, water if required
Assemble the Buddha Bowl
Assemble the quinoa, roasted broccoli, chickpeas, and spinach on a plate. Drizzle generously with dressing and enjoy!
Notes
Rinsing Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural saponins, which can make it taste bitter.
Roasting Tip: Feel free to adjust the roasting time for the broccoli and chickpeas to your preference for crispiness. If you like your broccoli extra crispy, leave it in a few minutes longer.
Customization: This recipe is very versatile! You can swap the spinach for kale or arugula. Add any of your favorite veggies or grains like brown rice, farro, or barley.
Spices for Chickpeas: If you like extra flavor, feel free to experiment with different spices for the chickpeas. Cumin, garlic powder, or even chili powder can add a unique twist.
Refrigeration: Store leftover quinoa, roasted broccoli, chickpeas, and dressing separately in airtight containers. The quinoa and roasted veggies will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Dressing: Keep the dressing in a sealed jar or bottle in the fridge for up to 1 week.