Sprinkle & Scout

Meal prepping used to feel like a mythical creature – something I wanted to do, but always seemed just out of reach. My lunches were a sad affair of questionable leftovers or rushed takeout. Then, something clicked. I decided to tackle the beast, starting small. And, my friends, the results are glorious! My journey to mastering meal prep started with one simple dish: the poke bowl. Not only is it incredibly healthy and packed with flavor, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prep in advance.

Take this beauty, for example: my latest poke bowl creation (pictured above!). A vibrant explosion of color and flavor in a single bowl, it’s the perfect embodiment of healthy and delicious. Sushi-grade salmon, perfectly glistening, rests atop fluffy white rice. Crunchy cucumbers and bright orange julienned carrots add a delightful textural contrast. Creamy avocado slices, speckled with black sesame seeds, provide a rich, healthy fat element. The entire masterpiece is easily customizable to your liking!

Ready to ditch the takeout and embrace the joy of meal prep? This recipe is your ticket to delicious, healthy lunches all week long.

Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• For the Rice:
  • 1 cup sushi rice
  • 1 ¼ cups water
• For the Poke Bowl:
  • 8 oz sushi-grade salmon, cut into ½-inch cubes
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • ½ cup cucumber, diced
  • ½ cup carrots, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon ginger, grated (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
  • Optional additions: edamame, seaweed salad, mango, sriracha mayo

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice: Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Combine rice and water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. Prepare the salmon: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and grated ginger (if using). Add the salmon cubes and gently toss to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer is better!).
3. Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls. Top with marinated salmon, avocado slices, cucumber, and carrots. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds.
4. Customize and enjoy! Add your favorite toppings, such as edamame, seaweed salad, mango, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo.

This poke bowl recipe is a fantastic starting point for your meal prep journey. It’s adaptable, delicious, and a surefire way to make healthy eating a breeze. So, ditch the takeout, embrace the prep, and enjoy the delicious rewards!