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Buddha bowls are such a great idea because not only are they good for you with their mix of grains, veggies, nuts, seeds and proteins, but they are also very versatile. even easier to put together, and they look great too!

But, if you have been making them for a long time, you can get stuck in a rut, using the same grains, proteins and veggies in every single bowl, and not doing all you can to maximize the flavor and interest of the dish, right? Well, it’s time to change that. It’s time to take your Buddha bowls to the next level….

Start With a Flavor-Packed Base

Instead of using plain rice or quinoa as your base, if you want to pack in the flavour, you are going to want to cook those grains in either vegetable broth or coconut milk instead. You can also add aromatics like turmeric, ginger and garlic into the cooking liquid for an extra hit of flavor.

Add Layers of Texture

The best Buddha bowls are those that have lots of different layers, consisting of lots of different textures, so you always have something interesting to chew on. So, be sure to combine crunchy, creamy, crispy, and tender elements in every bite, if you can. Think roasted chickpeas, shredded cabbage, toasted nuts, avocado slices, pickled vegetables, or fresh herbs if you want to create a Buddha bowl that is truly tasty and truly unique.

Use Standout Dressings

The dressing is the thing that ties everything together in any good Buddha bowl, so you are going to want to start using really high-quality dressings, instead of the same old same old packaged dressings. 

One fun upgrade is drizzling on a spicy cashew dressing (get the recipe) to add heat,  creaminess, and bold flavor. Tahini lemon sauce, miso ginger dressing, or a citrusy vinaigrette are also great options and you can, of course, chop and change depending on your mood.

Play With Global Flavors

When we think of Buddha bowls, we often think of Asia and its bold, spicy and refreshing flavors, and of course, they are great, but they are not the only option for your bowl. So, why not try Mediterranean toppings like olives and hummus, Mexican-inspired additions like salsa verde and black beans, or Thai touches like lime, basil, and chili crisp, too?

Each variation brings a new twist without changing the bowl’s structure, so it is an easy way to elevate the dish each time you have it, and make it feel like something fresh and new instead of a staple that you eat all the time.

Cook Your Proteins Creatively

Whether you use tofu, tempeh, seitan, beans, or chicken, seasoning makes all the difference. Marinate, pan-sear, air fry, or roast your protein to add depth and texture. A well-seasoned protein can turn a good bowl into a great one.

As you can see, it’s really easy to make every bite of your Buddha bowl an exciting one, and that’s great news because Buddha bowls really are one of the healthiest meals you can make at home.