Mediterranean High-Protein Power Bowl with Avocado Sweet Potato & Hot Honey Drizzle
This Mediterranean-inspired power bowl is a nourishing blend of roasted sweet potatoes, creamy avocado, crisp veggies, and a choice of high-protein base like grilled chicken or chickpeas. Topped with tangy feta, herby greens, and a fiery-sweet hot honey drizzle, it’s a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber—all in one satisfying bowl.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Bowl:
1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
1 cup cooked quinoa, brown rice, or farro
1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cucumber, diced
½ avocado, sliced
⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup hummus (optional)
Protein Options (Choose One):
1 grilled chicken breast (sliced)
½ cup roasted chickpeas
1 boiled egg + ¼ cup cooked lentils
½ cup grilled tofu
Hot Honey Drizzle:
2 tbsp honey
½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss cubed sweet potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender, flipping halfway through.
Prepare the Hot Honey Drizzle:
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine honey and red pepper flakes.
Warm gently until just thin and infused (about 30 seconds), then stir in vinegar/lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
Cook or Warm Your Protein:
Grill or cook the chicken, roast chickpeas, or prep another protein option as desired.
Assemble the Bowl:
In a large bowl, layer your base (quinoa, rice, or greens).
Add roasted sweet potatoes, protein, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta.
Add a dollop of hummus if using.
Finish with Drizzle:
Drizzle the hot honey over the entire bowl before serving.
Tips:
Prep Ahead:
Roast sweet potatoes, cook your grain, and prepare the protein in advance for a quick, ready-to-assemble meal during the week.
Balance the Bowl:
Aim for a balance of macronutrients:
Protein: Chicken, chickpeas, tofu, or eggs
Carbs: Sweet potatoes, quinoa, or brown rice
Fats: Avocado, feta, and olive oil
Fiber: Leafy greens, cucumber, and other veggies
Customize the Heat:
Control the spiciness of the hot honey by adjusting the red pepper flakes. For less heat, steep fewer flakes or skip them entirely for a milder sweetness.
Keep It Fresh:
Add a squeeze of lemon or a splash of vinegar just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Use Quality Honey:
Raw or local honey adds depth and better flavor to your drizzle.
Variations:
Protein Swaps:
Seafood: Add grilled shrimp or salmon for an omega-3 boost.
Plant-Based: Try falafel, tempeh, or a scoop of herbed lentils.
Grain Base Options:
Use cauliflower rice or zoodles for a low-carb version.
Try bulgur or couscous for a more traditional Mediterranean twist.
Add Crunch:
Top with toasted pine nuts, pumpkin seeds, or crispy chickpeas for texture.
Add Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle on chopped parsley, mint, or dill for Mediterranean freshness.
Flavor Boosters:
Drizzle with tahini instead of or in addition to hot honey.
Add a few Kalamata olives or a spoonful of tzatziki.
Make It a Wrap:
Wrap all ingredients in a whole-wheat pita or lavash bread for an easy portable lunch.
Q&A:
Q: Can I eat this bowl cold or warm?
A: Both! It’s great cold for meal prep or picnics, and also delicious warm with freshly roasted sweet potatoes and hot protein.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Absolutely. Use chickpeas or tofu for protein, skip the feta or use vegan feta, and drizzle with maple syrup or agave with chili flakes instead of honey.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: 3–4 days if stored in airtight containers. Keep the hot honey and avocado separate until ready to serve to preserve freshness.
Q: Can I use store-bought hot honey?
A: Yes! Brands like Mike’s Hot Honey work well, or you can make your own with the simple recipe provided.
Nutrition Facts (Per serving, based on 1 bowl with chicken and quinoa):
Calories: ~550
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 9g
Sugar: 10g (including natural sugars from honey and sweet potato)
Sodium: ~600mg
Note: These values will vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean High-Protein Power Bowl is a vibrant, balanced, and customizable meal that brings together nutritious ingredients with bold flavor. From the creamy avocado and roasted sweet potatoes to the spicy-sweet hot honey drizzle, every bite is both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re fueling a workout, prepping for the week, or just craving a feel-good bowl, this recipe delivers on taste and nutrition.