I’ve always had a soft spot for burrito bowls—something about the mix of textures and flavors just feels like a party in a bowl. On a recent Tuesday, while the world was abuzz with the latest TikTok trends, I found myself craving something comforting yet vibrant. These vegetarian burrito bowls, bursting with colorful veggies and zesty spices, are not just a meal but an experience that dances on your taste buds and warms your soul, even if it happens to be a rainy day.
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a large bowl, mix together sliced bell peppers, onion, cauliflower, olive oil, lime juice, and seasonings until the vegetables are evenly coated. Spread them on a sheet pan with the cauliflower cut side down and roast for 25-30 minutes until browned and crispy.
- While the vegetables are roasting, warm a can of black beans in a pot over medium heat, seasoning with salt, garlic powder, and cumin for enhanced flavor.
- Prepare the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro for added freshness and zest.
- To make the chipotle crema, combine Greek yogurt, chipotle peppers in adobo, lime juice, cilantro, green onion, garlic, and salt in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- To assemble the burrito bowls, begin with a layer of chopped romaine lettuce. Add the roasted vegetables, rice, and seasoned black beans. Top with your choice of garnishes and a generous drizzle of chipotle crema.
Ingredients
- 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small orange bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans
- Chopped romaine lettuce, for serving
- Cooked cilantro lime rice, for serving
- Crumbled cotija cheese, for serving
- Avocado, for serving
- 1/2 cup whole milk Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo
- 1/4 cup cilantro
- 1/4 cup green onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
FAQ
- What makes these Vegetarian Burrito Bowls filling and satisfying?
- The combination of roasted vegetables, black beans, and cilantro lime rice provides a hearty and nutrient-packed meal that is both filling and flavorful. The fiber from the veggies and beans, along with the protein content, helps keep you full.
- Can I prepare these burrito bowls in advance?
- Yes, these bowls are perfect for meal prep. You can cook and store the components separately, then reheat them as needed. When ready to eat, simply assemble the bowls and add your favorite toppings.
- What ingredients are needed for the chipotle crema?
- The chipotle crema is made with Greek yogurt, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, lime juice, cilantro, green onion, and fresh garlic. This creamy sauce adds a delicious kick to the burrito bowls.
- How can I customize the vegetables in the burrito bowls?
- While the recipe includes cauliflower, bell peppers, and onions, you can easily swap or add other vegetables such as sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or corn to suit your taste preferences.
- What are some suggested toppings for the burrito bowls?
- You can top your burrito bowls with a variety of ingredients such as avocado corn salsa, crumbled cotija cheese, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, pineapple or mango salsa, and pumpkin seeds for added texture and flavor.
Tips
- When roasting the vegetables, place cauliflower florets cut side down on the sheet pan to achieve a perfectly crispy and browned texture.
- For a less spicy chipotle crema, start with one chipotle pepper in adobo and adjust according to your spice preference.
- Use a slotted spoon when adding black beans to the bowl to avoid excess liquid, which can make the dish soggy.
- For meal prep, store the components like veggies, rice, and beans separately and reheat them individually for optimal freshness and flavor when assembling your bowl.
Equipment
- Blender or Food Processor – Needed to make the chipotle crema.
- Sheet Pan – For roasting the veggies in the oven.
- Mixing Bowl – A large one for combining and tossing the veggies with oil and spices.
