Short Description

The Christmas Eve Bowl is a vibrant, wholesome dish that comes together in just minutes—perfect for a quick, nutritious dinner before the festive celebrations begin. Featuring a colorful blend of quinoa, beans, vegetables, and optional toppings, it’s a budget-friendly, satisfying meal for the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bowl is a celebration of fresh, seasonal flavors that requires minimal prep and no cooking if ingredients like quinoa are pre-prepared. It’s nutritious, customizable, and festive enough to be part of your holiday tradition without the fuss. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking for a nourishing meal before the main feast, this dish delivers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup cooked quinoa
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels
1 avocado, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
½ red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, avocado, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss all the ingredients together until well combined and evenly coated.
Divide the mixture into serving bowls.
Add your desired toppings such as shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a spoonful of salsa.
Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, festive flavors.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, ground turkey, or tofu to make it more filling.
Grain Swap: Substitute quinoa with rice, couscous, or farro depending on preference or availability.
Holiday Twist: Sprinkle with dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a seasonal pop of sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
Dairy-Free Option: Skip the cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This bowl is best enjoyed fresh or chilled. If reheating, do so gently in a microwave-safe container, though note that avocado may become soft or brown.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare all ingredients except avocado ahead of time. Add avocado and toppings just before serving for the freshest taste.

FAQs

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time. Add avocado and toppings just before serving to maintain freshness.

What can I use instead of quinoa?

You can substitute with brown rice, couscous, bulgur, or cauliflower rice depending on your preference.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, as long as you skip dairy-based toppings like cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss diced avocado in extra lime juice and add it just before serving to prevent browning.

Can I serve this warm?

While designed to be served cold or at room temperature, you can warm the quinoa, beans, and corn for a comforting variation.

How do I make this spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to spice it up.

What other vegetables can I add?

Chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, grated carrots, or cucumber all make great additions.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Always verify labels when using packaged products.

Can I use canned corn?

Yes, canned corn works well—just drain it before mixing it in.

How can I make it more festive?

Top with red bell pepper and green cilantro for a Christmas color scheme, or add dried cranberries for a touch of holiday sweetness.

Conclusion

The Christmas Eve Bowl is a festive, nutritious, and incredibly simple dish perfect for the busy hours before holiday festivities begin. Whether you’re trying to save time, money, or effort, this cheerful bowl offers a wholesome solution packed with flavor and color. Make it your new tradition for a cozy and convenient Christmas Eve meal.

Christmas Eve Bowl

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Author: Douaa
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4-servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Christmas Eve Bowl is a festive, colorful, and budget-friendly dinner option — perfect for a quick meal before the holiday feast. Filled with hearty quinoa, beans, veggies, and fresh toppings, it’s a nutritious and delicious way to keep the holiday spirit alive!

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, avocado, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
Season:
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
Mix:
Toss everything together until well combined.
Serve:
Divide the mixture into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or salsa.
Enjoy:
Serve immediately for a wholesome and festive meal.

Notes

This bowl is fully customizable — add roasted sweet potatoes, grilled chicken, or chopped greens.
• Best served fresh but can be prepped in advance (except avocado).
• Great for vegetarian, gluten-free, and budget-conscious diets.
• Double the recipe for a larger crowd or leftovers.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Fusion, Holiday