High Protein Dinner Bowls

Name: High Protein Dinner Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 lime, juiced; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

High protein dinner bowls

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2025-12-24T15:27:34.141Z

These high protein dinner bowls are perfect for a nutritious meal that fuels your body. Packed with wholesome ingredients, they are not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein to keep you full and energized
Versatile and customizable to suit your taste
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

      

Nutritional Benefits

High protein dinner bowls are an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake. With the combination of quinoa, black beans, and a variety of fresh vegetables, this meal provides a balanced source of macronutrients. Quinoa is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it particularly beneficial for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

In addition to protein, these bowls are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Black beans and corn contribute not only to the protein content but also provide complex carbohydrates that help maintain energy levels throughout the day. The fresh vegetables add essential nutrients and antioxidants, promoting overall health and well-being.

Customization Options

One of the best features of high protein dinner bowls is their versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to cater to your personal preferences or dietary restrictions. If you're a fan of spicy food, consider adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. For a heartier meal, try topping your bowl with grilled chicken or shrimp.

Additionally, you can swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different types of beans, such as kidney beans or chickpeas, and mix in other veggies like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition. The possibilities are endless!

Meal Prep Made Easy

These high protein dinner bowls are perfect for meal prepping, making them an ideal choice for busy individuals or families. You can cook a large batch of quinoa and prepare the bean and vegetable mixture in advance. Store each component separately, and simply assemble your bowls when you're ready to eat. This not only saves time during the week but also ensures that you have a healthy meal ready to go.

To keep your ingredients fresh, consider using airtight containers for storage. You can also individually portion out each serving to make it even easier to grab and go. With a little planning, you can enjoy a nutritious dinner without the stress of last-minute cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your high protein dinner bowls:

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 lime, juiced
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your high protein dinner bowls:

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

Prepare the Veggies

In a large bowl, mix the black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked quinoa among four bowls. Top with the bean and vegetable mixture, and add sliced avocado on top.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and additional lime juice if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your nutritious dinner!

Enjoy your delicious high protein dinner bowls!

Serving Suggestions

These high protein dinner bowls are not only delicious on their own but also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables for an extra nutrient boost. You could also accompany the bowls with whole grain pita or tortilla chips for added texture and crunch.

For those who enjoy a little extra flavor, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can elevate the dish even further. Additionally, a side of homemade salsa or guacamole can enhance the overall dining experience, making it a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your high protein dinner bowls, store any leftovers in the refrigerator in airtight containers. They can typically last for up to three days. When reheating, be sure to warm the quinoa and bean mixture thoroughly, and you might want to add a splash of lime juice or a drizzle of olive oil to refresh the flavors.

If you prefer to freeze your bowls, consider keeping the avocado separate, as it doesn't freeze well. The rest of the ingredients can be portioned out and frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to label your containers with the date for easy reference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I meal prep these bowls?

Yes, these bowls can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What other protein sources can I add?

You can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for additional protein.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth, this recipe is gluten-free.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be a great substitute, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.