TACO BOWL

Ingredients:

  • Base:
    • 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
  • Toppings:
    • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
    • 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
    • 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
    • 1 ripe avocado, diced
    • Your choice of protein (1 pound ground beef, chicken, or tofu)
  • Seasoning for Protein:
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using chicken or tofu)
    • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, salt and pepper to taste)
  • Optional Toppings:
    • Shredded cheese
    • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
    • Salsa or pico de gallo
    • Fresh cilantro, chopped
    • Lime wedges

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Base:
    • If you haven’t already, cook the brown rice or quinoa according to package instructions.
  2. Prepare the Protein:
    • For Ground Beef or Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground beef or diced chicken and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary. Add taco seasoning and a little water (about 1/4 cup) to help the seasoning blend in. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
    • For Tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into cubes. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add the tofu, and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 8-10 minutes). Sprinkle with taco seasoning and stir to coat.
  3. Assemble the Taco Bowls:
    • In serving bowls, start with a base of cooked brown rice or quinoa.
    • Top with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and your choice of protein.
    • Add diced avocado and any optional toppings you like (cheese, sour cream, salsa, etc.).
  4. Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top. Enjoy your flavorful Taco Bowl!

Tips:

  • Feel free to customize your Taco Bowl with other toppings like jalapeños, olives, or chopped bell peppers.
  • You can meal prep these bowls for the week by storing the components separately in the fridge and assembling them when ready to eat.

Enjoy your delicious Taco Bowl!