I LOVE a wholesome super greens + grains bowl from CAVA. So many nutrients and colorful ingredients packed into one dish. It became a go-to meal when I first started adding more plant-based options to my diet (I always choose falafel as my protein). It took me until a few months ago to discover that I could easily recreate the same great-tasting bowl at home!
The first time that I recreated the bowl, I made almost everything from scratch. It was time-consuming but VERY delicious. Other times I opted to shortcut some steps with store-bought alternatives and the result was just as yummy. Consider this post a “choose your own adventure” recipe. I’ll provide options for both the homemade route and some delicious shortcuts. The choice is yours!
Choose Your Own Adventure Ingredients:
Greens
I love the cruciferous crunch blend from Trader Joe’s, but use whichever greens that you prefer!
Grains
White or Brown Rice
Falafel
Make your own using this Pinch of Yum recipe -OR- buy premade falafel–I recommend the frozen ones from Trader Joe’s!
Hummus
Use my Hummus with a Kick recipe -OR- buy premade hummus–I recommend the Dill Pickle Hummus from Trader Joe’s!
Zhoug Sauce
Make your own using this Frugal Hausfrau recipe -OR- buy premade Zhoug sauce–I recommend the Zhoug Sauce from, you guessed it, Trader Joe’s.
Tomatoes
Slice some cherry tomatoes or dice whichever tomatoes you prefer.
Pickled Onions
I EXCLUSIVELY use Sarah’s pickled onions recipe from the Cutting Veg. So easy and customizable. Add some ghost pepper flakes or chopped jalapenos for a little heat.
Roasted Garlic Sauce
The roasted garlic sauce drizzle is probably the most important step. I use this Hellmann’s sauce, but you can always try to create your own!
Lemon wedge
to garnish and squeeze for a twist
That’s it! I usually layer the bowl in the order listed above, take a photo, then mix it all up to enjoy (gotta distribute the flavor!). For another nourishing bowl recipe, check out my Sunday Brunch Bowl!
Hi Cierra, thanks for the shout out on the Zhoug!! Your Cava bowl looks mouthwatering! I saw a guy on Diner’s Drive Ins and Dives put a bowl together like this and thought it looked so good. I’m going to be doing some traveling or i’d probably be up making falafel right now, lol!
Mollie
Thank YOU for the great recipe! I had no idea that Diner’s Drive Ins and Dives featured a similar bowl!
This looks fan-tastic!
Thank you!! Let me know if you try it!