Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowls with Black Beans & Green Rice (Vegetarian, Vegan)

Move over Chipotle! This Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowl recipe is a longtime PWWB favorite. These veggie-loaded bowls explode with fresh flavor and hearty texture, making for a seriously light-yet-satisfying meal. Plus, they’re so easy to make! Whether you’re prepping for lunch or whipping up dinner for friends, these customizable burrito bowls are perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of grilled veggies and creamy green rice creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings and ingredients to make each bowl uniquely yours.
• Healthy & Filling: Packed with veggies and protein-rich black beans, these bowls keep you satisfied without weighing you down.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start your culinary adventure, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for blending the creamy green rice quickly and efficiently.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides that perfect charred flavor to your veggies.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for prepping your veggies before grilling.

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Ingredients

For the Grilled Veggies:

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or high smoke point vegetable oil of choice
• 2 ears sweet corn, husked
• 3 large bell peppers (color of choice), sliced from stem into 3–4 flat planks
• 2 red onions, peeled & sliced into ⅛ths (with root end intact)
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled as desired & sliced into ½-inch rounds (crosswise) or planks (lengthwise)
• 1 (one) 15-ounce can black beans, drained & rinsed
• kosher salt & ground black pepper, to season

For Serving:

• Green rice (below)
• Pico de gallo or salsa of choice
• Chopped lettuce
• Finely chopped cilantro
• Sour cream or cashew crema
• Guacamole or mashed avocado
• Lime wedges

For the Green Rice:

• 2 cups cooked brown rice or rice of choice
• 1 large avocado
• 2 jalapeños, deseeded as desired & roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 cup loosely packed cilantro leaves & tender stems
• 2 large, juicy limes, juiced (about ¼ cup juice)
• ¼ cup water
• kosher salt & ground black pepper, to season

How to Make Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowls with Black Beans & Green Rice (Vegetarian, Vegan)

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat the grill for medium-high direct heat grilling at 450–500 degrees F. Gather and prep all ingredients according to the ingredients list above.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Rice Mixture

1. Add the avocado, jalapeños, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice to a food processor.
2. Season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and ground black pepper as desired.
3. Pulse to combine. Once combined, let the food processor run while slowly streaming in the water until creamy and pureed.
4. Transfer the avocado mixture to a large bowl and fold in the cooked rice until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.

Step 3: Grill the Vegetables

1. Place corn, bell peppers, onions, and sweet potato on a baking sheet.
2. Drizzle with avocado oil and season with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste; toss well to coat.
3. Grill vegetables for about 3–4 minutes per side until charred and tender.
4. Once cool enough to handle, slice corn from cob and chop remaining veggies into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls

Place a generous spoonful of green rice at the bottom of a large shallow bowl. Top with grilled veggies, grilled corn, black beans, lettuce, and any other toppings you desire. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowls with Black Beans & Green Rice (Vegetarian, Vegan)

These Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them to suit your tastes and preferences with a variety of toppings and sides.

Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Lettuce: Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty ingredients.
• Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado goodness that enhances richness and adds healthy fats.

Creamy Additions

• Sour Cream or Cashew Crema: A smooth topping that complements the spices and grilled veggies beautifully.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some cheese on top for a melty finish.

Flavor Boosters

• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over your bowl for a zesty kick.
• Hot Sauce: Add your favorite hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.

How to Perfect Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowls with Black Beans & Green Rice (Vegetarian, Vegan)

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your burrito bowls, keep these tips in mind.

• Boldly Season Vegetables: Use ample salt and pepper when grilling your veggies to enhance their natural flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh produce whenever possible; it makes a noticeable difference in taste.
• Experiment with Grains: While brown rice is great, you can also try quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture.
• Don’t Skimp on the Green Rice: This creamy cilantro lime rice is the star; make sure it’s well-seasoned and blended smoothly.
• Grill in Batches: If necessary, grill vegetables in small batches to ensure they cook evenly without overcrowding the grill.
• Customize Your Bowls: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have at home; this recipe is all about versatility.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowls with Black Beans & Green Rice (Vegetarian, Vegan)

Pairing side dishes with your burrito bowls can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant salad featuring corn, lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese.
2. Black Bean Salad: Mix black beans with corn, bell peppers, and a tangy dressing for a refreshing side.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: A simple yet flavorful rice dish that complements the burrito bowls perfectly.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with your favorite salsa make for a delightful appetizer.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Seasoned sweet potatoes roasted until crispy add sweetness and texture to the meal.
6. Guacamole & Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served alongside tortilla chips offers a perfect dip option before the main course.
7. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb side that pairs well with the rich flavors of the burrito bowls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating delicious Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowls with Black Beans & Green Rice (Vegetarian, Vegan) is straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the marination: Failing to marinate your veggies before grilling can lead to bland flavors. A quick soak in olive oil and spices enhances their taste.
• Overcooking the rice: Cooking the rice too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and check for doneness a few minutes early.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in a flat-tasting bowl. Don’t shy away from salt and pepper, and consider adding spices for extra flavor.
• Neglecting texture: A mix of textures makes the dish exciting. Balance creamy elements like guacamole with crunchy toppings like lettuce or tortilla chips.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Stale or wilted produce can take away from the dish’s freshness. Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowls with Black Beans & Green Rice (Vegetarian, Vegan)

• Portion out in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Keep frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowls with Black Beans & Green Rice (Vegetarian, Vegan)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat with a splash of water or broth until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowls with Black Beans & Green Rice (Vegetarian, Vegan).

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand. Zucchini and mushrooms work great too!

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free grains like brown rice or quinoa.

What can I add for protein?

In addition to black beans, consider adding chickpeas or tofu for extra protein without compromising the vegetarian aspect.

Can I meal prep these bowls?

Yes! These bowls are perfect for meal prep. Assemble them in advance and store them separately for easy access throughout the week.

How do I customize my burrito bowl?

Customization is key! Add your favorite toppings like salsa, cheese, or even nuts and seeds to enhance flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Veggie Burrito Bowls with Black Beans & Green Rice (Vegetarian, Vegan) are not only delicious but also versatile. They allow you to mix and match ingredients according to your taste preferences. Whether you are aiming for a hearty meal or something light, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try and explore all the customization options available!