Name: Vegan Burrito Bowl: Easy & Awesome Feast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice; 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped; 2 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed; 1/2 tsp salt, more as needed; 1 tbsp oil (olive, avocado, coconut); 1 small onion, diced; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can corn, drained and rinsed; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp chipotle powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 large ripe avocado; 1 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Romaine lettuce, chopped; Pico de gallo; Hot or mild salsa; Vegan cashew sour cream, optional; Vegan nacho cheese, optional; Tortilla strips, optional; Lime wedges, optional; Cilantro, optional; Hot sauce or sriracha, optional

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Vegan burrito bowl goodness is something I’ve come to rely on for quick, satisfying meals. I remember my first attempt at making one myself, and while it was good, it wasn’t *great*. It wasn’t until I discovered a few key techniques that I unlocked the magic of a truly vibrant and flavorful plant-based burrito bowl. This easy vegan burrito bowl is now a staple in my kitchen, bursting with fresh flavors and textures that make every bite exciting. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Burrito Bowl

This vibrant dish is a winner for so many reasons:

Incredible flavor explosion with every bite!
Super quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
A truly healthy vegan burrito bowl packed with nutrients.
Budget-friendly ingredients make it an economical choice.
So versatile, you can customize it endlessly.
Family-friendly – even picky eaters love it!
It’s a satisfying and filling healthy vegan burrito bowl option.
Makes fantastic leftovers for lunch the next day.

Ingredients for Your Vegan Burrito Bowl

Gathering these simple vegan burrito bowl ingredients is the first step to a delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup uncooked long-grain rice – the base for our bowl
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped – for that fresh, zesty flavor
2 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed – brightens up the rice
1/2 tsp salt, more as needed – essential for seasoning
1 tbsp oil (olive, avocado, coconut) – for sautéing
1 small onion, diced – adds a sweet and savory foundation
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed – a fantastic source of plant-based protein
1 can corn, drained and rinsed – for a touch of sweetness and texture
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp chipotle powder – for a smoky heat
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper – to season the beans
1 large ripe avocado – for creamy, rich guacamole
1 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed – to keep the avocado fresh and add tang
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper – seasoning for the guacamole
Romaine lettuce, chopped – for a crisp, refreshing crunch
Pico de gallo – adds a burst of fresh tomato flavor
Hot or mild salsa – for extra sauciness
Vegan cashew sour cream, optional
Vegan nacho cheese, optional
Tortilla strips, optional – for that satisfying crunch
Lime wedges, optional
Cilantro, optional
Hot sauce or sriracha, optional – for an extra kick

How to Make a Vegan Burrito Bowl

Let’s get this delicious meal assembled! Follow these simple steps to create your own vibrant and flavorful vegan burrito bowl.

Step 1: Start by cooking your rice according to the package directions. While the rice simmers, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes, you can get the other components ready.
Step 2: Once the rice is cooked, gently stir in the chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This simple step infuses the rice with a bright, zesty flavor that’s key to a great vegan burrito bowl.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the drained and rinsed black beans to the skillet. Sprinkle in the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it heat through for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the spices to meld beautifully. The aroma will be amazing!
Step 5: In a separate small bowl, mash the ripe avocado with a fork. Mix in the fresh lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth and creamy guacamole. This is how to make a vegan burrito bowl truly special.
Step 6: Now it’s time to assemble! Layer your bowls starting with a generous scoop of the cilantro lime rice.
Step 7: Top the rice with a hearty portion of the warm, spicy black beans.
Step 8: Add a bed of crisp chopped romaine lettuce, followed by a dollop of your freshly made guacamole.
Step 9: Finish off your masterpiece with pico de gallo, salsa, and any other optional toppings you love. Enjoy your perfectly crafted vegan burrito bowl!

Vegan Burrito Bowl: Easy & Awesome Feast - Vegan Burrito Bowl - additional detail

Making the Cilantro Lime Rice

To prepare the rice, cook it according to package directions. Once fluffy, stir in the fresh cilantro, bright lime juice, and a touch of salt. This simple seasoning elevates the rice, making it a flavorful foundation for your bowl. For more simple recipes, check out our recipes.

Preparing the Spicy Black Beans

First, sauté the diced onion in a skillet with oil until soft. Then, add the black beans and a blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and chipotle powder. Cook for a few minutes until heated through and fragrant. Onions are a nutritional powerhouse, learn more about their benefits here.

Crafting the Creamy Guacamole

Mash a ripe avocado in a bowl. Stir in fresh lime juice to prevent browning and add tang. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a simple yet delicious creamy topping. If you love avocado, you might enjoy our easy avocado toast recipe.

Assembling Your Perfect Bowl

Start with the seasoned cilantro lime rice as your base. Layer on the warm, spicy black beans, then add crisp romaine lettuce. Finish with a generous scoop of creamy guacamole and a spoonful of fresh pico de gallo for a vibrant finish.

Pro Tips for the Best Vegan Burrito Bowl

These tips will elevate your vegan burrito bowl from good to absolutely amazing:

Don’t skip seasoning the rice and beans; this is crucial for flavor depth.
Ensure your avocado is perfectly ripe for the creamiest guacamole.
Roast your corn for a few minutes before adding it for a sweeter, smokier taste.
Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) for extra crunch.

What’s the secret to perfect vegan burrito bowl flavor?

The secret lies in layering flavors and textures. My best vegan burrito bowl recipe relies on well-seasoned components like the cilantro lime rice and spicy black beans, plus fresh, vibrant toppings like pico de gallo and creamy guacamole.

Can I make this vegan burrito bowl ahead of time for meal prep?

Absolutely! For meal prep, store the rice, beans, and toppings in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble just before eating to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.

How do I avoid common mistakes with vegan burrito bowls?

A common pitfall is blandness. Always season each component generously! Another mistake is overcooking the beans, making them mushy. Sauté them just until heated through and fragrant.

Best Ways to Serve Your Vegan Burrito Bowl

This versatile vegan burrito bowl is fantastic on its own, but I love pairing it with a few extra touches to make it a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider adding some grilled tofu or seasoned tempeh as an extra layer of vegan protein for your burrito bowl. A side of tortilla chips with some extra salsa or a dollop of vegan crema also makes for a delightful accompaniment. You can even serve it alongside a simple salad with a lime vinaigrette for a light, refreshing contrast. For more salad inspiration, try our mediterranean chickpea salad.

Vegan Burrito Bowl: Easy & Awesome Feast - Vegan Burrito Bowl - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Vegan Burrito Bowl

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional goodness packed into each serving of this delicious vegan burrito bowl:

Calories: 480
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 70g
Fiber: 16g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 700mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Your Vegan Burrito Bowl

Making this vegan burrito bowl ahead of time is a game-changer for busy weeks, and proper storage ensures it stays delicious. Once cooked, let all the components cool completely before storing them. This is crucial to prevent condensation and sogginess. I like to keep the rice, beans, lettuce, pico de gallo, and guacamole in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, when you’re ready to eat, you can assemble a fresh-tasting bowl. This meal prep strategy keeps the components fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you need to store it for longer, you can freeze the rice and beans for up to 3 months, though the fresh toppings are best stored in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm the rice and beans in a skillet or microwave until heated through, then assemble with the fresh toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Burrito Bowls

What goes in a vegan burrito bowl?

A classic vegan burrito bowl typically includes a base of seasoned rice, like cilantro lime rice, followed by plant-based proteins such as spicy black beans or seasoned lentils. You’ll also find fresh components like chopped lettuce, pico de gallo, corn salsa, and creamy guacamole. Other popular additions include sautéed vegetables, salsa, and optional vegan sour cream or cheese.

Can I make this vegan burrito bowl ahead of time for meal prep?

Absolutely! For an easy meal prep vegan burrito bowl, I recommend storing the cooked components separately. Keep the rice, beans, corn, and any sautéed vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Store the guacamole and pico de gallo separately as well, and assemble your bowl just before you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

How do I avoid common mistakes with vegan burrito bowls?

A common pitfall is blandness, so make sure to season every component well – the rice, the beans, and even the guacamole! Another mistake is overcooking the beans, which can make them mushy. Sauté them just until they are heated through and the spices are fragrant. Also, don’t forget to add a good crunch, whether it’s from tortilla strips or toasted seeds, as texture is key to a satisfying bowl.

What are the best toppings for a vegan burrito bowl?

The possibilities are endless! Beyond the basics like pico de gallo and guacamole, consider adding pickled red onions for a tangy bite, roasted sweet potatoes for sweetness, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a dollop of vegan cashew cream also adds a wonderful finishing touch to any vegan burrito bowl.

Variations of Vegan Burrito Bowls You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, you’ll want to explore all the delicious ways to customize your vegan burrito bowl! For a different flavor profile, try a Southwest-inspired bowl with roasted corn and bell peppers, or a Mexican street corn style with cotija-style vegan cheese and a drizzle of crema. If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap the rice for a base of mixed greens or quinoa to create a nutrient-dense plant-based burrito bowl. You can also experiment with different protein sources like seasoned tofu, tempeh, or even roasted chickpeas for a satisfying crunch. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make each bowl your own! For more inspiration on grains, explore the benefits of barley.