by: julioarco88Posted on:

Bright Vegan Cilantro-Lime Rice Bowl with Roasted Sweet Potato

Introduction

When it comes to building a nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying meal, few dishes hit the mark like a Bright Vegan Cilantro-Lime Rice Bowl with Roasted Sweet Potato. This bowl is the perfect balance of zesty, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, combining fluffy cilantro-lime rice, caramelized roasted sweet potatoes, creamy avocado, and a tangy lime dressing.

Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants, this rice bowl is as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, making a quick lunch, or looking for a vibrant dinner option, this dish delivers bold flavors and wholesome ingredients in every bite.

The roasted sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and caramelized edges, pairing perfectly with the fresh, citrusy rice. A creamy avocado topping, crunchy pepitas (pumpkin seeds), and a refreshing lime dressing complete the dish, making it bright, satisfying, and incredibly tasty.

This recipe is not only vegan and gluten-free, but it’s also easily customizable. You can add black beans, chickpeas, tofu, or grilled vegetables to switch things up, making it a versatile, go-to meal for any occasion. If you love fresh flavors, nourishing ingredients, and a bit of zest, this Cilantro-Lime Rice Bowl with Roasted Sweet Potato will quickly become one of your favorites!

Why Choose This Vegan Cilantro-Lime Rice Bowl?

This rice bowl is more than just a simple meal—it’s a powerhouse of nutrients, flavors, and textures. Here’s why you’ll love it:

1. Bright, Fresh, and Flavorful

  • Cilantro and fresh lime juice add a refreshing, citrusy kick to the rice.
  • Roasted sweet potatoes bring a subtle caramelized sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tangy rice.
  • A simple lime dressing ties everything together beautifully.

2. Rich in Nutrients & Plant-Based Protein

  • Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, beta-carotene, and antioxidants.
  • Avocado provides healthy fats and a creamy texture.
  • Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) add crunch and magnesium, supporting muscle and bone health.

3. Easy to Make & Meal-Prep Friendly

  • This bowl comes together in under 40 minutes, making it great for weeknights.
  • It’s perfect for meal prep—store leftovers and enjoy throughout the week.
  • You can make extra cilantro-lime rice and roasted sweet potatoes for other meals.

4. Customizable & Versatile

  • Add black beans, chickpeas, or crispy tofu for more protein.
  • Swap rice for quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a twist.
  • Adjust spice levels by adding chili flakes, jalapeño, or hot sauce.

Picture Gallery

Ingredients

For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Cilantro-Lime Rice

  • 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice (or brown rice)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Lime Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Assembly & Toppings

  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • ¼ cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas), toasted
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Ingredient Breakdown

Sweet Potatoes: Natural Sweetness & Nutrients

Sweet potatoes provide fiber, vitamins A and C, and complex carbohydrates, making them a fantastic base for this bowl. Roasting them enhances their natural sweetness and gives them crispy edges.

Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fresh & Zesty

The combination of fresh cilantro and lime juice brightens the rice, making it light, citrusy, and aromatic. Using vegetable broth instead of water adds extra depth of flavor.

Pumpkin Seeds: Crunch & Nutrients

Toasted pumpkin seeds add a nutty crunch while providing healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 2: Cook the Cilantro-Lime Rice

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth (or water) to a boil.
  3. Add the rice and salt, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 15 minutes (or according to package instructions).
  4. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
  5. Fluff with a fork, then stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.

Step 3: Make the Lime Dressing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

  1. Divide the cilantro-lime rice into bowls.
  2. Add the roasted sweet potatoes and sliced avocado on top.
  3. Drizzle with the lime dressing.
  4. Sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds and extra cilantro for garnish.
  5. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Enjoy warm, or refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Tips and Variations

  • Make it high-protein: Add black beans, chickpeas, or tofu for extra protein.
  • Spice it up: Top with chili flakes, jalapeño, or hot sauce for heat.
  • Swap the grains: Try quinoa, farro, or brown rice for variety.
  • Add more greens: Stir in baby spinach or kale for extra nutrients.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~420
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fats: 18g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Vitamin A: 180% DV
  • Iron: 3.8mg

Conclusion

This Bright Vegan Cilantro-Lime Rice Bowl with Roasted Sweet Potato is a fresh, nourishing, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The citrusy, herby rice pairs beautifully with the sweet, caramelized roasted potatoes, while the creamy avocado and crunchy pepitas add incredible texture.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, making a quick dinner, or looking for a wholesome plant-based meal, this rice bowl is a winner. Give it a try and let me know your favorite add-ins or toppings in the comments below!

FAQs

1. Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes! Store components separately in the fridge and assemble when ready to eat.

2. Can I use another type of rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice, quinoa, or farro work great.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates. Always consult a professional for dietary needs.