Name: Southwest Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: Protein: Grilled chicken, beef, shrimp, or black beans; Brown rice or quinoa (or a salad base like lettuce or spinach); Black beans, drained and rinsed; Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); Cherry tomatoes, halved; Red onion, diced; Avocado, sliced; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime, cut into wedges; Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional); Shredded cheese (optional); Salsa or pico de gallo; Spices: Chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Full of Flavor: The combination of smoky spices, fresh ingredients, and zesty toppings makes each bite burst with flavor.
Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences, choosing your protein, adding or omitting veggies, and picking your preferred grain or greens as a base.
Balanced Meal: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, Southwest Bowls are a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Quick & Easy: This recipe can be put together in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner option.
Meal Prep Friendly: You can easily make extra portions for lunch or dinner later in the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Protein: Grilled chicken, beef, shrimp, or black beans
Brown rice or quinoa (or a salad base like lettuce or spinach)
Black beans, drained and rinsed
Corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Red onion, diced
Avocado, sliced
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime, cut into wedges
Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
Shredded cheese (optional)
Salsa or pico de gallo
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper

Directions

Prepare the Protein: Season your chosen protein with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or sauté until fully cooked. If using chicken, beef, or shrimp, slice them into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Grains: Cook brown rice or quinoa according to package instructions. If using a salad base, simply prepare your greens by washing and drying them.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, sauté corn and black beans for 4-5 minutes until warmed through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Assemble the Bowls: Start with a base of rice or greens in each bowl. Add the protein on top, followed by the sautéed black beans and corn.
Add Fresh Ingredients: Top with diced tomatoes, red onion, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro.
Garnish & Serve: Finish with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a spoonful of salsa or pico de gallo. Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegan/Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and use extra beans or grilled veggies like zucchini, peppers, or mushrooms.
Add Heat: For a spicier bowl, add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Grilled Veggies: Swap sautéed veggies for grilled peppers, onions, or sweet potatoes for a smokier flavor.
Swap the Base: Instead of rice or quinoa, use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or switch to a whole grain like farro or bulgur.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover components in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid storing the avocado or fresh cilantro until serving.
Reheating: Reheat the grains and protein in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add fresh toppings when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make Southwest Bowls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the grains, protein, and veggies ahead of time. Store them in separate containers and assemble when ready to eat.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! Feel free to use shrimp, ground beef, tofu, or even tempeh for a variety of options.

How do I make the bowls spicier?

Add more chili powder, cumin, or cayenne pepper to the protein seasoning. You can also top the bowls with sliced jalapeños or a spicy salsa.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen corn and beans can be used in place of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first.

Can I use regular rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can use white rice instead of brown rice, but keep in mind that brown rice has more fiber and a heartier texture.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese option.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free grains (like rice or quinoa) and check any sauces or dressings for hidden gluten.

How can I make this bowl lower in carbs?

To reduce carbs, swap the rice or quinoa for cauliflower rice or a leafy green base like spinach or lettuce.

What can I serve with Southwest Bowls?

You can serve them with tortilla chips, guacamole, or a side of grilled vegetables for extra flavor and crunch.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken or store-bought salsa?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked protein to save time. Store-bought salsa or pico de gallo also works perfectly.

Conclusion

Southwest Bowls are a fun, customizable, and nutritious meal that brings the bold flavors of the Southwest right to your kitchen. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, they’re a delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal with endless flavor combinations. Whether you’re craving something smoky, spicy, or fresh, these bowls are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Southwest Bowls

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Southwest Bowls are a hearty, customizable meal that combines smoky spices, protein, veggies, and grains or greens, offering a delicious and healthy dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, these bowls are packed with flavor and can be tailored to suit your dietary needs.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 15min
Total Time: 30min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling, Sautéing
Cuisine: Southwestern
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Prepare the Protein: Season your chosen protein with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or sauté until fully cooked. Slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Grains: Cook brown rice or quinoa according to package instructions. If using a salad base, simply prepare your greens by washing and drying them.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, sauté corn and black beans for 4-5 minutes until warmed through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Assemble the Bowls: Start with a base of rice or greens in each bowl. Add the protein on top, followed by the sautéed black beans and corn.
Add Fresh Ingredients: Top with diced tomatoes, red onion, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro.
Garnish & Serve: Finish with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a spoonful of salsa or pico de gallo. Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

Notes

Vegan/Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and use extra beans or grilled veggies like zucchini, peppers, or mushrooms.
Add Heat: For a spicier bowl, add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Grilled Veggies: Swap sautéed veggies for grilled peppers, onions, or sweet potatoes for a smokier flavor.
Swap the Base: Instead of rice or quinoa, use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or switch to a whole grain like farro or bulgur.