Name: Mexican Buddha Bowl with Cilantro Lime Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 sweet potatoes, cubed; 1 tbsp olive or avocado oil; 1½ tsp taco seasoning; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 (14 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained; ¼ cup shredded red cabbage (optional); ½ red bell pepper, sliced; 2 tbsp red onion, diced; ½ avocado, sliced; Lime wedges, for serving; Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish; ½ cup plain yogurt (or dairy-free alternative); ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, minced; 1 tsp fresh lime juice; ⅛ tsp salt

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: A wholesome meal prepared in half an hour, ideal for busy schedules.
Nutritious: Packed with superfoods like sweet potatoes, black beans, and avocado, offering a range of vitamins and minerals.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your preferred vegetables or added proteins.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizes affordable ingredients, making it light on your wallet.

Ingredients

2 sweet potatoes
1 tablespoon oil (olive or avocado)
1.5 teaspoons taco seasoning
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 (14-ounce) can black beans
1/4 cup red cabbage (optional)
1/2 red bell pepper
2 tablespoons red onion
1/2 avocado
Lime wedges
Fresh cilantro leaves

For the Cilantro Lime Sauce:

1/2 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
1/8 teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Wash and cube the sweet potatoes, then toss them on a baking sheet with oil and taco seasoning. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Prepare the Sauce: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, mix together plain yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, minced cilantro, fresh lime juice, and salt in a small bowl. Stir well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
Assemble the Bowl Components:
- Cook the corn if using fresh or frozen.
- Rinse and drain the black beans.
- Chop the red cabbage (if using), slice the red bell pepper, dice the red onion, and slice the avocado.
- Prepare lime wedges and additional cilantro leaves for garnish.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide the roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, red cabbage, red bell pepper, red onion, and avocado among bowls. Drizzle with the prepared cilantro lime sauce, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve with lime wedges.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes.

Variations

Protein Addition: Incorporate grilled chicken, steak, or tofu for added protein.
Grain Base: Add cooked rice or quinoa to make the bowl more filling.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Dressing Alternative: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try a simple lime vinaigrette or add minced cilantro to ranch dressing.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the sweet potatoes, black beans, and corn in the microwave or on the stovetop. Assemble the bowls with fresh toppings and sauce just before serving.

FAQs

What is a Buddha Bowl?

A Buddha Bowl is a hearty, nutritious dish typically composed of vegetables, protein, and grains, often drizzled with a flavorful sauce. It’s usually served cold and is known for its balanced and wholesome ingredients.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute the yogurt and mayonnaise in the sauce with plant-based alternatives to make the dish vegan.

How can I meal prep this recipe?

Prepare and store each component separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls with fresh avocado and sauce just before eating to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

What other vegetables can I include?

Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or sautéed mushrooms based on your preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

Slice the avocado just before serving. If preparing in advance, sprinkle the slices with lime juice and store them tightly wrapped to slow down oxidation.

Can I use a different type of bean?

Absolutely, kidney beans or pinto beans can be used as alternatives to black beans.

How long does the cilantro lime sauce last?

The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.