Healthy Lunch Veggie Sushi Bowls

Name: Healthy Lunch Veggie Sushi Bowls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup sushi rice; 1 1/4 cups water; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 small cucumber, sliced; 1 avocado, diced; 1 carrot, grated; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1/4 cup radishes, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; Soy sauce or tamari, for drizzling; Pickled ginger (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Favorites

I love making these Healthy Lunch Veggie Sushi Bowls for a quick and satisfying meal that’s also nutritious. Each bowl is packed with colorful vegetables and can be customized to fit my cravings. I prepare everything in advance, which makes assembling my lunch a breeze. Plus, by using sushi rice and fresh ingredients, I can enjoy the flavors of sushi without any of the fuss. These bowls are perfect for meal prepping and will keep me energized throughout the day!

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:49:34.806Z

When I first started making these Healthy Lunch Veggie Sushi Bowls, I was looking for a way to incorporate more vegetables into my diet without sacrificing flavor. I discovered that by using a mix of fresh veggies like avocado, cucumber, and bell peppers, I could create a bowl that was not only vibrant but also delicious. The combination of textures from the crunchy vegetables and the chewy rice makes each bite incredibly satisfying.

During my last batch of sushi bowls, I experimented with adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of soy sauce over the top. The nutty flavor of the sesame seeds complements the freshness of the vegetables perfectly, and the soy sauce adds an umami punch that brings everything together. I encourage you to try different sauces and toppings to match your personal taste!

        Why You'll Love These Sushi Bowls
        Vibrant and colorful presentation that brightens any meal prep
Nutritious ingredients full of vitamins and minerals
Easily customizable to fit your flavor preferences

      

The Importance of Sushi Rice

Using the right sushi rice is crucial for achieving that signature sticky texture that holds everything together. Sushi rice, typically short-grain, absorbs water differently than other rice varieties, which is why it becomes tender yet firm when cooked. This unique quality helps maintain the structure of your sushi bowl while also allowing it to absorb the flavors of the vinegar mixture you fold in. Avoid substitutions like long-grain rice, as it won't provide the same satisfying chewiness and could lead to a less cohesive dish.

When preparing sushi rice, be sure to rinse it thoroughly. If you skip this step, the excess starch can create a gummy texture that detracts from the dish's overall quality. Rinsing helps remove this starch, allowing individual grains to separate. Additionally, using a rice cooker can yield the best results since it regulates water and heat perfectly, resulting in consistently cooked rice every time.

Customizing Your Veggie Choices

One of the greatest advantages of these sushi bowls is their versatility regarding vegetable choices. While cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers offer a refreshing crunch, feel free to experiment with other options like pickled cucumbers, blanched asparagus, or even kale for added nutrition. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding thinly sliced jalapeños or spicy radishes to give your bowl an extra kick. The vibrant colors of the veggies not only enhance the dish's visual appeal but also contribute to a well-rounded nutritional profile.

When preparing your vegetables, remember that uniformity is key. Aim for bite-sized pieces so that each scoop of rice and veggie can be enjoyed together. A simple chef’s knife is usually sufficient, but a mandoline can help you achieve perfectly even slices for an aesthetically pleasing presentation. If you find yourself pressed for time, pre-packaged, pre-cut veggies can also serve as a convenient shortcut without sacrificing quality.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious bowls:

Sushi Rice

1 cup sushi rice
1 1/4 cups water
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt

Veggies

1 small cucumber, sliced
1 avocado, diced
1 carrot, grated
1 bell pepper, sliced
1/4 cup radishes, thinly sliced

Toppings

2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Soy sauce or tamari, for drizzling
Pickled ginger (optional)

Feel free to add or substitute any veggies based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your sushi bowls:

Prepare the sushi rice

Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a rice cooker or pot, combine the rinsed rice and water, and cook according to the rice cooker's instructions or bring to a boil and let it simmer covered for 15 minutes. Once done, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved, then fold this mixture into the cooked rice. Allow it to cool slightly.

Chop the veggies

While the rice is cooking, prepare your vegetables by slicing them into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them in separate bowls to keep everything organized for assembly.

Assemble the bowls

In a bowl, place a scoop of sushi rice at the bottom. Artistically arrange the sliced vegetables over the rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and drizzle with soy sauce or tamari. Add pickled ginger on the side if desired.

These bowls are perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner!

Pro Tips

You can add proteins such as tofu or shrimp to make the bowls heartier. Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or spicy mayo for varied flavor profiles.

Make-Ahead Tips

These veggie sushi bowls are ideal for meal prep, as both the sushi rice and vegetables can be prepared in advance and stored separately. Keep the rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring that it stays moist but not wet. For optimal flavor and freshness, chop your vegetables just before enjoying, or store them in a container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, preventing them from wilting.

If you're feeling particularly organized, you can pre-assemble bowl components without fully combining them. This means layering the rice in your container with the separated veggies on top. When ready to eat, simply toss everything together; this keeps the ingredients fresh and vibrant for your lunch.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storing leftover sushi bowls is straightforward. To preserve freshness, keep the rice and veggie components in separate containers in the refrigerator. You can store them for up to three days without significant loss of texture or flavor, but try to consume them sooner for the best taste. Reheat the rice in the microwave for about 30 seconds if you prefer it warm; just be careful not to dry it out by overcooking.

Consider pairing your veggie sushi bowl with side dishes like edamame or a light miso soup for a well-rounded meal. These additions complement the vibrant flavors and textures of the sushi bowl, creating a delightful balance. Experiment with different sauces like ponzu or spicy mayo for dipping to enhance your meal even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sushi bowls vegan?

Absolutely! Just omit any animal products or use plant-based sauces for dipping.

→ How long will the sushi rice last?

Once cooked, sushi rice is best enjoyed within a day. You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can use any vegetables you enjoy! Try adding cooked sweet potatoes, zucchini, or snap peas.

→ Is it okay to meal prep these bowls?

Yes! You can prepare the rice and chop the veggies ahead of time. Just assemble the bowls when you're ready to eat.