why make this recipe
This high protein meal prep bowl is one of the easiest ways to set yourself up for the week. Built on quinoa and black beans, it’s naturally plant-based, loaded with fiber and protein, and comes together with simple pantry staples. Whether you eat it cold or warmed up, this meal prep bowl holds up beautifully in the fridge for days without losing its texture or flavor.
how to make Simple High Protein Meal Prep Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced bell peppers and corn. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the peppers are soft.
- Stir in the quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
how to serve Simple High Protein Meal
Serve this meal warm. You can enjoy it as is or add a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor. It works well as a main dish or a side.
how to store Simple High Protein Meal
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until warm or warm on the stove.
tips to make Simple High Protein Meal
- Use cooked quinoa for quicker prep; it saves time!
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to increase nutrition.
- For a spicier version, add jalapeños or hot sauce.
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Storage and Reheating
Store this high protein meal prep bowl in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s just as good cold, straight from the fridge, or warmed up in the microwave for about a minute. If you’re prepping for the week, keep any dressing or sauce separate and add it right before eating.
Tips for the Best High Protein Meal Prep Bowl
Cook your quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor. Rinsing the black beans well helps cut down on excess sodium. For more protein, add a scoop of grilled chicken or a fried egg on top — this bowl is easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
variation
You can swap black beans for chickpeas or kidney beans. Additionally, add diced a Avocado for creaminess or top with Greek yogurt for extra protein. Feel free to double the batch and freeze individual portions for even quicker lunches later in the month.
This bowl also travels well, making it a great option for office lunches or picnics.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes! Frozen vegetables work great in this recipe and save prep time.
Q: Is this meal gluten-free?
A: Yes, this meal is gluten-free as long as you ensure that the quinoa and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
Q: Can I make this meal ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This meal can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for easy lunches or dinners.
Can I make this high protein meal prep bowl ahead of time?
Yes — this recipe is designed for meal prep. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
Is this high protein meal prep bowl vegan?
Yes, as written it’s fully plant-based, thanks to the quinoa and black beans providing the protein.
Simple High Protein Meal
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced bell peppers and corn. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the peppers are soft.
- Stir in the quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.