Anti-Inflammatory Mexican Rice Bowl (High-Protein, Gut-Healthy Power Bowl)

This Anti-Inflammatory Mexican Rice Bowl is a vibrant, nutrient-dense meal packed with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, healthy fats, and antioxidant-loaded vegetables. Designed to support gut health, metabolic balance, weight management, and reduced inflammation, this bowl delivers bold Mexican flavors while nourishing your body with clean, whole-food ingredients.

Perfect for meal prep, healthy dinner recipes, high-protein lunch ideas, gluten-free diets, and clean eating plans, this bowl is both satisfying and functional nutrition at its best.

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🥑 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Anti-Inflammatory Cilantro Lime Rice

• 2 cups cooked brown rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• Juice of 1 lime

• 2 tbsp fresh chopped cilantro

• ½ tsp turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory boost)

• Sea salt to taste

For the Seasoned Lean Beef (or Plant-Based Option)

• 1 lb grass-fed lean ground beef (or lentils for vegan)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp oregano

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp turmeric

• Sea salt to taste

Toppings

• 1 cup black beans (rinsed, low sodium)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup organic corn (fresh or frozen)

• 1 avocado, sliced

• ½ cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese (optional or dairy-free)

• 1 fresh jalapeño, sliced

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro

• ½ cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free probiotic yogurt

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.

2. Stir in olive oil, lime juice, turmeric, cilantro, and salt.

3. Fluff and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Protein

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add beef and cook until browned.

3. Stir in garlic and spices.

4. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and fully cooked.

(For plant-based: Cook lentils with the same spice blend.)

Step 3: Assemble the Bowl

1. Add rice as the base.

2. Top with seasoned beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, avocado.

3. Add yogurt, cheese, jalapeños, and cilantro.

4. Serve immediately.

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🌿 Why This Recipe Is Anti-Inflammatory

This bowl includes powerful anti-inflammatory ingredients:

• Turmeric – Curcumin reduces inflammatory markers

• Extra virgin olive oil – Rich in heart-healthy polyphenols

• Avocado – Loaded with omega-9 fatty acids

• Black beans – Fiber supports gut microbiome balance

• Cilantro & garlic – Natural detoxifying compounds

• Grass-fed beef – Higher omega-3 content than conventional

This makes it ideal for those focusing on:

• Hormone balance

• Weight loss meal plans

• PCOS-friendly meals

• Blood sugar control

• Autoimmune-support diets

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of fermented salsa or kimchi for extra gut health benefits.

• Add a squeeze of fresh lime before eating.

• Pair with sparkling lime water or unsweetened iced green tea.

• Use leftovers for:

  • Burritos

  • Lettuce wraps

  • Stuffed bell peppers

  • Healthy meal prep containers

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🔄 Variations

🌱 Vegan Version

• Replace beef with:

  • Spiced lentils

  • Tempeh crumbles

  • Walnut taco meat

🥦 Low-Carb / Keto

• Use cauliflower rice

• Skip corn and beans

• Add extra avocado

🐔 High-Protein Option

• Substitute grilled chicken breast

• Add extra Greek yogurt

• Top with hemp seeds

🧀 Dairy-Free

• Use cashew crema

• Skip cheese or use plant-based

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❓ Related Questions

Is Mexican Rice Bowl healthy?

Yes — when made with whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, it becomes a balanced anti-inflammatory meal.

Can I meal prep this?

Absolutely. Store ingredients separately for up to 4 days for optimal freshness.

Is it good for weight loss?

Yes. High protein + fiber = better satiety and reduced cravings.

Can I freeze it?

The rice and beef freeze well. Avoid freezing avocado and fresh toppings.

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📊 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 520–580 kcal

• Protein: 32–38g

• Carbohydrates: 45–55g

• Fiber: 10–12g

• Healthy Fats: 22g

• Sugar: 6g

• Omega-3s: Moderate (higher with grass-fed beef)

Using cauliflower rice reduces carbs by ~25g per serving.

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💡 Final Thoughts

This Anti-Inflammatory Mexican Rice Bowl is more than just a healthy dinner recipe — it’s a nutrient-powered, metabolism-supporting, gut-friendly superfood bowl designed for modern wellness lifestyles.