by HCSG Contributor

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Balance in a Bowl: The Art of the Buddha Bowl

,

Looking to add a little variety, color, and balance to your plate? Buddha bowls are a fun, flexible, and filling way to create a healthy meal. A complete meal includes lean protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and a generous helping of fruits and vegetables. Think of it as your nutrition canvas: colorful, customizable, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or pulling together a quick meal, Buddha bowls check all the healthy boxes, and then some!

How to Build Your Bowl

When building your Buddha bowl, aim to include at least one item from each of the categories below. Feel free to mix, match, and get creative!

1. Start with a Grain

Examples: Quinoa, Brown Rice, Millet

2. Add Protein

Examples: Eggs, Beans, Lentils, Chicken, Tofu, Hummus

3. Pile on Vegetables

Examples: Broccoli, Carrots, Mushrooms, Spinach—raw or roasted

4. Top with Healthy Fats

Examples: Avocado, Olives, Nuts, Pumpkin seeds

While many versions are vegetarian or plant-based, Buddha bowls welcome any protein of choice. The best part of a Buddha bowl is that there are so many different ways to create this recipe with the foods that you love. Whether you’re a seasoned meal prepper or trying to incorporate healthier food, Buddha bowls are the way to go.

Don’t know where to start? Try this quick, delicious recipe.

Libby Matthews MA, RD, LD | elizabeth.matthews@hcsgcorp.com

“I love being a dietitian with HCSG. I enjoy helping residents with their nutritional needs and being able to provide individualized care to support their overall well-being.”

Libby Matthews has been a Registered Dietitian at HCSG since 2024. She has a Master’s degree in Health Advancement and Promotion from Fontbonne University and a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition from the University of Maine. Originally from Maine, Libby currently resides there with her fiancé, their golden retriever, orange tabby cat, and two chickens. In her free time, Libby enjoys running, reading books, and hiking.

Related Articles —

, , , , , , , ,