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Home » Lunch

The 25 Vibrant Bowls For A Guilt-Free Weekend Lunch

Published: Apr 5, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

There’s something great about vibrant bowls that make a weekend lunch feel fresh and easy. These recipes keep things light without leaving you hungry, and they’re packed with colors and flavors that make every bite worth it. Whether you’re keeping things simple or looking for something with a little crunch, these bowls are a great way to keep your meal bright and balanced. No heavy meals slowing you down—just fresh, great food that hits the spot.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Salmon-Rice-Bowl.jpg

Salmon Rice Bowl. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Nigerian Fried Rice

An overhead image of Nigerian fried rice in a serving bowl.
Nigerian Fried Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Nigerian fried rice comes together in just 15 minutes with long-grain rice, colorful veggies, and bold spices. A great choice for keeping meals bright and filling without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Nigerian Fried Rice

Mexican Corn Salad

An overhead image of Mexican corn salad with the ingredients fully mixed together.
Mexican Corn Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Mexican corn salad is quick to make and works well with any meal. It keeps things light while bringing fresh flavors to the table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad

Instant Pot Jollof

A close-up of a pot with cooked jollof rice with a person's hand holding a red spatula.
Instant Pot Jollof. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot Nigerian Jollof Rice is a hearty rice dish stewed in tomato and pepper flavors. An easy way to enjoy a bold and comforting meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jollof

Stuffed Acorn Squash

A close up view of three stuffed acorn squash placed in a serving plate.
Stuffed Acorn Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stuffed acorn squash with quinoa brings together sweet and savory flavors in a simple dish. Its mix of textures makes it great for sharing or enjoying as a meal on its own.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Mexican Street Corn Salad

An overhead image of Mexican street corn salad in a bowl with two slices of lime resting on the side.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Charred corn and creamy dressing give this Mexican Street Corn Salad a great balance of flavors. It works as a side dish that’s easy to throw together and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice)

A straight view of cooked jeera rice in a white plate.
Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Jeera rice is made with cumin and cooked until fluffy for a versatile side dish. It pairs well with rich mains and doesn’t need any special equipment.
Get the Recipe: Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice)

Salmon Rice Bowl

Salmon Rice Bowl. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The mix of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in this salmon rice bowl makes every bite worth it. A quick way to enjoy a fresh, filling meal any time of the day.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Rice Bowl

Middle Eastern Quinoa Salad Bowl

Middle Eastern Quinoa Salad Bowl. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This Middle Eastern Quinoa Salad brings classic tabbouleh flavors into a quick, easy meal. A fresh option for lunches, barbecues, or as a side dish.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Quinoa Salad Bowl

Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This quinoa grain bowl packs vegetables, beans, and grains into a balanced, filling meal. A practical way to keep energy up during busy days.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

Rainbow Bowl

Rainbow Bowl. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

The colorful rainbow bowl mixes vegetables and grains for a balanced, satisfying meal. A bright and fresh option for a nutrient-rich lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Bowl

Moroccan Couscous Salad with Israeli Couscous Bowl

Moroccan Couscous Salad with Israeli Couscous Bowl. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Pearl couscous salad combines Israeli couscous, feta, pumpkin, peppers, and herbs with a tahini lemon dressing. It works as a side or starter with plenty of texture and fresh flavors.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Couscous Salad with Israeli Couscous Bowl

Antipasto Farro Salad

Antipasto Farro Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Antipasto farro salad pairs crispy prosciutto with hearty farro and bold Mediterranean ingredients. A great choice for lunches or a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Farro Salad

Slow Cooker Tex Mex Quinoa Taco Bowls

Slow Cooker Tex Mex Quinoa Taco Bowls. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Slow cooker Tex-Mex quinoa taco bowls bring together bold Southwestern flavors. This hands-off recipe makes dinner easy without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Tex Mex Quinoa Taco Bowls

Bulgur Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash and Leeks

Bulgur Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash and Leeks. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Bulgur with roasted butternut squash and leeks highlights earthy flavors with rosemary and garlic. A simple way to add variety to any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Bulgur Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash and Leeks

Mediterranean Grain Bowl

Two grain bowls are shown on a white marble counter with forks, a red linen, dill, and a lemon.
Mediterranean Grain Bowl. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Mediterranean Grain Bowls use pre-cooked grains, fresh vegetables, and bold flavors in a quick meal. This dish comes together in about 10 minutes for a hassle-free lunch.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grain Bowl

Barley Kale and Cherry Salad

Barley Kale and Cherry Salad. Photo credit: Running ot the Kitchen.

Barley, kale, and cherry salad with toasted walnuts is fresh and packed with texture. A great way to bring something wholesome to summer meals.
Get the Recipe: Barley Kale and Cherry Salad

Crispy Rice Salad

Crispy Rice Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The crispy rice salad mixes leftover rice, fresh vegetables, and Asian-inspired flavors. A simple way to turn basic ingredients into a flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice Salad

Sweet and Spicy Green Tofu Quinoa Bowl

Sweet and Spicy Green Tofu Quinoa Bowl. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Sweet and Spicy Green Tofu Quinoa Bowls combine crispy tofu with avocado, jalapeño, and fresh ingredients. A balanced meal that keeps energy up through the afternoon.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Green Tofu Quinoa Bowl

Gluten Free Millet Tabbouleh

Gluten Free Millet Tabbouleh. Photo credit: Running ot the Kitchen.

Millet tabbouleh brings classic flavors with a bright, lemony finish. A refreshing option for casual lunches or shared meals.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Millet Tabbouleh

Vegetable Moroccan Couscous Bowl

A close up image of Vegetable Moroccan Couscous in a bowl with a serving spoon.
Vegetable Moroccan Couscous Bowl. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

This one-pot Vegetable Moroccan Couscous blends hearty vegetables with fragrant spices. A great go-to for quick weeknight meals that don’t feel heavy.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Moroccan Couscous Bowl

Middle Eastern Tofu Bowl

Middle Eastern Tofu Bowl. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl is simple to prepare with bold spices and easy steps. A great choice for keeping lunches fresh and flavorful when it’s cooler outside.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Tofu Bowl

Kale Quinoa Salad

Kale Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Kale quinoa salad brings together fresh ingredients in a nutrient-packed dish. A great way to add variety to meals with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Kale Quinoa Salad

Quinoa Mango Spinach Salad

Quinoa Mango Spinach Salad. Photo credit: Running ot the Kitchen.

Quinoa mango spinach salad balances sweet mango with protein-rich quinoa in a fresh, easy meal. A great pick for light lunches or a vegetarian main dish.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Mango Spinach Salad

Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl

Overhead shot of shrimp skewers and veggie skewers next to a bowl of dressed grains.
Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Grilled shrimp grain bowls bring summer flavors together with a citrus herb vinaigrette. A refreshing but filling meal that’s perfect for warmer months.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl

Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Mediterranean couscous salad with smoked tomatoes balances rich textures and bold flavors. Great for lunches or as a flavorful dinner side.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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