High Protein Comfort Bowls

Name: High Protein Comfort Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Fresh cilantro for garnish; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a nourishing meal with these High Protein Comfort Bowls, perfect for any time of the day.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:28:15.812Z

These High Protein Comfort Bowls are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for a cozy night in or a meal prep option for the week!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein to fuel your day
Flavorful and customizable with your favorite toppings
Great for meal prep and easy to make

      

Nutritional Benefits

These High Protein Comfort Bowls are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Quinoa, a complete protein, provides all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. Combined with black beans, this dish becomes a powerhouse of protein, fiber, and vitamins, supporting muscle repair and overall health.

In addition to protein, the colorful vegetables in this recipe contribute vital vitamins and minerals. Red bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, which is crucial for immune function, while avocado adds healthy fats that promote heart health. Corn adds a touch of sweetness and is a good source of carbohydrates, giving you lasting energy throughout the day.

Meal Prep Made Easy

These High Protein Comfort Bowls are ideal for meal prepping. You can cook a large batch of quinoa and prepare the dressing in advance, saving you time during the week. Simply portion out the quinoa and toppings, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy a nutritious meal in minutes, even on the busiest days.

Customizing the bowls is another perk of meal prep. Use this recipe as a base and switch up the ingredients according to your preferences or what's in season. Try adding roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed spinach, or even grilled chicken for added protein. This versatility keeps your meals exciting and prevents boredom.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a hearty dinner, or a post-workout meal, these High Protein Comfort Bowls fit the bill. Their balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates makes them satisfying and nourishing at any time of day. Serve them at casual gatherings or family dinners for a meal that everyone will love.

With a vibrant presentation, these bowls are as visually appealing as they are tasty. The combination of colors from the vegetables and garnishes makes for a stunning dish that’s sure to impress guests. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what matters most—enjoying good food with great company.

Ingredients

For the Bowls

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh cilantro for garnish

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add other protein sources like grilled chicken or tofu!

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, and diced bell pepper. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to combine.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide the mixture into serving bowls. Top with sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your hearty and nutritious bowls!

Storage Tips

To keep your High Protein Comfort Bowls fresh, store the components separately. Place the quinoa, beans, and vegetables in individual airtight containers. This prevents the ingredients from becoming soggy and allows you to assemble your bowls fresh each time you eat.

When stored properly in the refrigerator, the ingredients can last for up to four days. If you want to extend the shelf life, consider freezing the quinoa and beans. Just make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

These comfort bowls are delicious on their own, but feel free to add your favorite proteins or toppings. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can elevate the dish, providing additional flavor and texture. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.

You can also accompany the bowls with a side of tortilla chips or whole-grain pita for a satisfying crunch. Pair with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or sparkling water to complete your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly!

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! Brown rice or farro would also work well.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure that the vegetable broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.