Versatile bowl base with rice, beans, protein, and veggies for easy weekly meal prep
# What You'll Need:
→ Grains
01 - 2 cups cooked white or brown rice, or quinoa
→ Beans
02 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
→ Protein
03 - 2 chicken breasts, cooked and chopped
04 - or 1 pound ground beef or turkey, cooked and seasoned
05 - or 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
→ Vegetables
06 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
07 - 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
08 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
09 - 0.5 cup red onion, finely diced
10 - 1 cup shredded lettuce or chopped romaine
→ Toppings
11 - 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
12 - 0.5 cup salsa or pico de gallo
13 - 0.5 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
14 - 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
15 - 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
16 - Lime wedges for serving
→ Seasonings
17 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
18 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
19 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
20 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
21 - Salt and pepper to taste
# How to Prepare:
01 - Prepare rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool slightly before storing.
02 - For chicken: season with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then cook in a skillet with olive oil until golden and fully cooked. For ground meat: brown in a skillet with olive oil and seasonings until fully cooked, then drain excess fat. For tofu: toss cubes in olive oil and seasonings, then pan-fry until golden brown on all sides.
03 - Warm beans in a skillet with a small splash of olive oil, cumin, and chili powder for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through and infused with flavor.
04 - Dice all fresh vegetables evenly and arrange toppings in separate small containers for easy assembly and optimal freshness.
05 - Divide cooked rice, seasoned beans, protein, and prepared vegetables into 4 airtight containers, keeping each component separate to preserve texture and flavor. Store toppings, cheese, and dairy components in separate small containers.
06 - Reheat base components as desired, then add fresh vegetables and toppings immediately before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
