Buddha Bowl Recipes Vegan With Dressing for Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Discover the vibrant world of vegan Buddha bowl recipes that are as nourishing as they are visually stunning! These bowls are a fantastic way to pack a variety of flavors, textures, and nutrients into one wholesome meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based eating, Buddha bowls offer endless possibilities to customize your meals with fresh veggies, grains, and protein-packed legumes. Plus, the secret to making these bowls truly pop lies in the delicious homemade dressings that tie everything together with a burst of flavor.

In this post, you’ll find multiple creative vegan Buddha bowl recipes complete with easy-to-make dressings that will elevate your bowl to new heights. From tangy tahini dressings to zesty citrus vinaigrettes, you’ll learn how to prepare each element step-by-step.

So grab your favorite veggies and let’s create bowls that are not only good for your body but also your soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Buddha bowls are the perfect balance of nutrition, convenience, and taste. They are:

  • Highly customizable: Use whatever fresh and seasonal produce you have on hand.
  • Rich in nutrients: Combining grains, veggies, and legumes ensures a meal full of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins.
  • Quick to prepare: Many components can be prepped in advance for busy weeknights.
  • Deliciously satisfying: The homemade dressings provide vibrant, bold flavors that make every bite exciting.
  • Perfect for meal prep: Store components separately and assemble fresh bowls throughout the week.

Ingredients

  • Grains: 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
  • Greens: 2 cups baby spinach or kale, chopped
  • Roasted vegetables: 1 cup sweet potatoes, cubed and roasted
  • Fresh vegetables: 1/2 cup shredded carrots, 1/2 cup cucumber slices
  • Legumes: 1 cup cooked chickpeas or black beans
  • Avocado: 1/2, sliced
  • Seeds & nuts: 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds
  • Herbs: Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
  • Salt & pepper: To taste

Dressing Options

  • Tahini Lemon Dressing: 3 tbsp tahini, juice of 1 lemon, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 garlic clove minced, water to thin, salt to taste
  • Creamy Avocado Cilantro Dressing: 1/2 avocado, 1/4 cup cilantro, juice of 1 lime, 1 tsp agave, 1 garlic clove, water to thin, salt to taste
  • Spicy Peanut Dressing: 2 tbsp peanut butter, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp sriracha, 1 tsp maple syrup, water to thin

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan (for cooking grains)
  • Baking sheet (for roasting vegetables)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Food processor or blender (for dressings)
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowls or meal prep containers

Instructions

  1. Cook the grains: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa or brown rice under cold water. Cook according to package instructions (typically 15 minutes for quinoa, 40-45 minutes for brown rice). Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Roast the sweet potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until tender and caramelized.
  3. Prepare fresh veggies: Shred the carrots and slice the cucumber thinly. Chop the baby spinach or kale.
  4. Cook or rinse legumes: If using canned chickpeas or black beans, rinse and drain well. If cooking dried legumes, prepare them in advance.
  5. Make the dressing: Choose your favorite dressing recipe. Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth. Add water gradually to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Assemble the bowls: Start with a base of grains, add greens, arrange roasted sweet potatoes, fresh veggies, and legumes in sections. Add avocado slices and sprinkle with seeds or nuts.
  7. Drizzle dressing generously: Pour your homemade dressing over the bowl just before serving.
  8. Garnish and serve: Add fresh herbs on top for color and flavor. Serve immediately or store components separately for meal prep.

Tips & Variations

“Feel free to swap ingredients based on seasonality or preference. Roasted Brussels sprouts, grilled tofu, or steamed broccoli are great alternatives!”

  • Use farro, millet, or couscous instead of quinoa or rice for different textures.
  • Add pickled vegetables like red onions or beets for a tangy contrast.
  • Try swapping pumpkin seeds for sunflower seeds or walnuts for crunch.
  • For extra protein, add baked tofu cubes or tempeh strips seasoned with your favorite spices.
  • Make your dressings ahead and store in airtight containers for up to a week.
  • Mix and match dressings with bowls to discover new flavor combinations.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 450-500 kcal
Protein 15-18 g
Carbohydrates 60-65 g
Fiber 12-15 g
Fat 15-20 g
Sodium 300-400 mg (varies by dressing)

Serving Suggestions

Buddha bowls are satisfying on their own but pair wonderfully with light sides or beverages. Try serving your vegan Buddha bowl alongside a crisp cucumber salad or a bowl of miso soup for a complete meal.

For drinks, herbal teas or sparkling water with lemon add refreshing notes that complement the fresh, wholesome flavors.

Want to explore more plant-based delights? Check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a creamy vegan pasta option or try the hearty Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for an earthy, meaty texture.

If you enjoy easy comfort food, the Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food is a perfect follow-up meal.

Conclusion

Vegan Buddha bowls are a beautiful celebration of color, flavor, and nutrition all in one bowl. They provide a simple yet versatile framework to enjoy a wide array of plant-based ingredients, making healthy eating exciting and approachable.

The homemade dressings add a burst of flavor that ties together the wholesome components, turning a simple meal into a delicious experience.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or crafting a quick lunch, these bowls will keep you energized and satisfied. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite veggies and dressings to find your perfect combination.

Happy cooking and enjoy your nourishing Buddha bowls!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Buddha Bowl with Tahini Dressing

Description: A colorful and nutritious vegan Buddha bowl packed with fresh veggies, quinoa, and chickpeas. Topped with a creamy tahini dressing for a delicious finish.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the dressing:
  • 3 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions

  1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let cool.
  2. In a bowl, toss chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Assemble bowls with quinoa, chickpeas, spinach, carrots, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red cabbage.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, water, and garlic until smooth.
  5. Drizzle dressing over the assembled bowls.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 50 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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