Nourish bowls, protein bowls, poke bowls… the world is going crazy over these magically transformed meals.

There are a million and one ways to create a “bowl” but that doesn’t mean that they are all nutritionally balanced. By balanced I mean that they provide a variety of nutrients- protein, carbohydrates and fat.

To simplify the process and allow it to customized to your preferences, here is a step-by-step guide on how to build your own bowl any which way you like!

1. Build it from the bottom up (feel free to mix and match):

Carbohydrate-rich bases: rice, quinoa, sweet potato, potato, pasta noodles, rice noodles

Low carbohydrate bases: zucchini noodles, riced cauliflower, leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula), spaghetti squash

2. Pump that protein:

Animal-based: chicken, salmon, tuna, shrimp, eggs, turkey, pork, beef

Plant-based: tofu, tempeh, edamame beans, chickpeas, lentils

3. Viable veggies (choose at least 2):

Raw or cooked: cucumber, tomatoes, carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, Brussels sprouts, green/yellow beans, bok choy, mushrooms, asparagus, cabbage, onions

4. Don’t forget the fat:

Avocado, hemp hearts, nuts (almonds, walnuts), pumpkin seeds, hummus, tahini

5. Sprinkle that seasoning:

Herbs: cilantro, basil, oregano, parsley

Seasonings: salt and pepper, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, sriracha, Trader Joe’s Everything Bagel Spice

Dressings: Lemon Tahini Sauce, Poppyseed Vinaigrette, Basil Balsamic Vinaigrette, Maple Tahini Vinaigrette, Greek Dressing.

Enjoy!