Fresh & Healthy California Bowl (Easy Meal Prep Recipe)

California Bowl

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4 bowls


Ingredients

Base

  • 2 cups cooked brown rice (or quinoa)
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup edamame, steamed and shelled
  • 1 medium carrot, shredded
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Protein (Choose One)

  • Grilled chicken: 2 chicken breasts, seasoned with salt, pepper & paprika
    or
  • Tofu: 1 block firm tofu, cubed and pan-seared
    or
  • Salmon: 2 fillets, baked or pan-seared

Citrus Ginger Dressing

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions

  1. Prepare the Base:
    Cook rice or quinoa if you haven’t already. Let cool slightly. Prep all veggies and set aside.
  2. Cook the Protein:
    • Chicken: Grill or pan-sear 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through, then slice.
    • Tofu: Pan-sear cubes in a little oil until golden on all sides.
    • Salmon: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–14 minutes or pan-sear 4 minutes per side.
  3. Mix the Dressing:
    Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey/maple, lime juice, ginger, sesame oil, and olive oil until smooth.
  4. Assemble the Bowls:
    In each bowl, start with a bed of rice. Add cabbage, greens, cucumber, tomatoes, edamame, carrots, avocado, and green onions.
  5. Add Protein:
    Place the sliced chicken, tofu, or salmon on top of each bowl.
  6. Finish & Serve:
    Drizzle generously with citrus-ginger dressing, sprinkle sesame seeds, and serve immediately.

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