Kale, Black Bean & Avocado Burrito Bowl

After a weekend of indulgence, I found myself craving something wholesome yet satisfying. That's when the idea of a burrito bowl came to mind—a dish that combines hearty ingredients with vibrant flavors. This bowl features lime-marinated kale, seasoned black beans, fluffy brown rice, and a zesty avocado salsa verde. It's a meal that not only …

After a weekend of indulgence, I found myself craving something wholesome yet satisfying. That’s when the idea of a burrito bowl came to mind—a dish that combines hearty ingredients with vibrant flavors. This bowl features lime-marinated kale, seasoned black beans, fluffy brown rice, and a zesty avocado salsa verde. It’s a meal that not only nourishes the body but also delights the palate.

Ingredients

For the quinoa :

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Lime-Marinated Kale:

  • 1 bunch curly kale, ribs removed and chopped into bite-sized pieces

  • ¼ cup fresh lime juice

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • ½ jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped

  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Avocado Salsa Verde:

    • 1 ripe avocado, pitted and chopped

    • ½ cup mild salsa verde

    • ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves

    • 2 tablespoons lime juice 

For the Seasoned Black Beans:

  • 2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained

  • 1 shallot, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder

  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Cherry tomatoes, halved

  • Toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)

  • Hot sauce

Instructions

  • Cook the Quinoa:

    •  Use 1 3/4 cups water for every cup of quinoa. Any more water, and the grains get mushy. Any less, and they’re too dry.

    • Combine the quinoa and water in a medium pot. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce the heat.
      Simmer for 15 minutes.

    • Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes more.

    • Then, remove the lid and fluff with a fork!

  • Prepare the Lime-Marinated Kale:

    • Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl.

    • Massage the kale with your hands until it becomes darker and tender.

    • In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chopped jalapeño, cumin, and salt.

    • Pour the dressing over the kale and toss to combine

    • Make the Avocado Salsa Verde:

    • In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, salsa verde, cilantro, and lime juice.

    • Blend until smooth and set aside.

  • Prepare the Seasoned Black Beans:

    • In a medium saucepan, sauté the chopped shallot and minced garlic until fragrant.

    • Add the black beans, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.

    • Cook over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

  • Assemble the Burrito Bowls:

    • Divide the cooked brown rice among four bowls.

    • Top each with a portion of lime-marinated kale, seasoned black beans, and a generous dollop of avocado salsa verde.

Tips & Storage

    • Meal Prep: Each component can be prepared in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

    • Serving: When ready to eat, reheat the quinoa then assemble the bowl with fresh kale and salsa verde.

    • Customization: Feel free to add other toppings like sliced radishes, corn, or grilled vegetables to suit your taste.

Nelson Malik

Nelson Malik