Copycat CAVA Bowl

Recreate your favorite Copycat CAVA Bowl at home with fresh ingredients and bold Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for a healthy and delicious meal!

A Copycat CAVA Bowl brings the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine right to your kitchen with a customizable mix of fresh ingredients. Start with a base of greens or grains like arugula, rice, or quinoa, then layer it with your favorite proteins such as grilled chicken, falafel, or roasted vegetables.

Add an array of toppings like hummus, tzatziki, pickled onions, and spicy harissa for a burst of flavor and texture. The beauty of this bowl lies in its versatility, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences while enjoying a healthy and satisfying meal. Perfect for meal prepping or a quick, delicious dinner!

If you love easy Copycat Air Fryer Recipes, try my recipe for McDonald’s Tartar Sauce, Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, or Olive Garden Garlic Herb Sauce.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Customizable to Your Taste: You can mix and match ingredients to create a bowl that perfectly suits your preferences.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with wholesome ingredients like greens, grains, and proteins, this bowl is a well-rounded meal.
• Bursting with Flavor: With Mediterranean staples like hummus, tzatziki, and harissa, every bite is a flavor explosion.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this bowl achievable for a quick lunch or dinner.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Prep the components in advance for easy, grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Enjoy a gourmet experience without leaving your kitchen.
• Diet-Friendly: Naturally versatile, it fits various diets, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.

Ingredients Needed

• Greens (like arugula or spinach): Provides a fresh, nutrient-packed base for your bowl.
• Grains (such as rice, quinoa, or farro): Adds a hearty, filling component to balance the bowl.
• Protein (like grilled chicken, falafel, or roasted chickpeas): Offers a flavorful and satisfying source of energy.
• Hummus: Brings a creamy, savory element that ties the ingredients together.
• Tzatziki Sauce: Adds a refreshing, tangy flavor to complement the richness of the bowl.
• Harissa: Infuses a spicy kick for those who love bold flavors.
• Pickled Onions: Provides a zesty, tangy crunch that enhances the overall texture.
• Feta Cheese: Contributes a salty, creamy burst of Mediterranean flavor.
• Cucumbers: Adds a cool, crisp texture for freshness in every bite.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Delivers a sweet and juicy pop of flavor.
• Pita Chips or Bread: Completes the bowl with a crunchy or soft side for dipping.

How To Make Copycat Cava Bowl

Step One: For falafel or chicken, season them with Mediterranean spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes for falafel or 15-18 minutes for chicken, flipping halfway for even cooking.

Step Two: While the air fryer is running, cook your grains (quinoa, rice, or farro) on the stovetop or in a rice cooker according to package instructions.

Step Three: Dice cucumbers, halve cherry tomatoes, and prepare pickled onions. Set them aside for assembling the bowl.

Step Four: Lightly spray pita chips with olive oil and sprinkle with seasoning if desired. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until crisp.

Step Five: Start with a base of greens and grains, then add the air-fried falafel or chicken. Layer on vegetables, hummus, tzatziki, harissa, and feta cheese. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill and serve immediately with warm pita chips or bread. Enjoy your restaurant-style CAVA bowl at home!

Copycat CAVA Bowl Recipe Tips

• Prep Ingredients in Advance: Chop vegetables, cook grains, and prepare sauces ahead of time for quick assembly during mealtime.
• Customize Your Protein: Use your favorite protein, such as grilled shrimp, roasted lamb, or air-fried tofu, for variety.
• Balance the Flavors: Include a mix of creamy (hummus), tangy (tzatziki), spicy (harissa), and fresh (vegetables) elements for a well-rounded bowl.
• Enhance with Herbs: Add fresh parsley, dill, or mint for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
• Crunch Factor: Include pita chips, toasted nuts, or seeds for extra texture and flavor.
• Adjust Consistency: If your dressing or sauces are too thick, thin them out with a bit of water or lemon juice for easier drizzling.
• Don’t Skip the Pickled Onions: Their tanginess elevates the entire dish with a zesty burst of flavor.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Swap regular pita chips for gluten-free options and ensure grains like quinoa are certified gluten-free.

Storing

• Storing: Keep all components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and texture.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked protein and grains in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing fresh vegetables or sauces as they may lose their texture and flavor.
• Reheating: Reheat grains and protein in the microwave or air fryer until warmed through. Serve with fresh vegetables and sauces for a quick and delicious meal.

What To Serve With Copycat CAVA Bowl

Pair your Copycat CAVA Bowl with a side of warm pita bread or crispy pita chips for scooping up the flavorful toppings. Add a Mediterranean-inspired soup, like lentil or tomato basil, to make the meal heartier.

A simple Greek salad or roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, also complement the bowl beautifully. Don’t forget to include a dessert like baklava or fresh fruit for a sweet finishing touch!

Copycat CAVA Bowl Recipe Faqs

Can I make this bowl vegetarian or vegan? Yes! Use falafel or roasted chickpeas as the protein and ensure your sauces, like tzatziki, are dairy-free for a vegan option.

What grains work best for the base? Quinoa, rice, farro, or couscous are all excellent choices. Choose your favorite or mix them for added texture.

Can I prep this bowl ahead of time? Absolutely! Cook your grains, prepare your protein, and chop vegetables in advance. Store ingredients separately and assemble just before eating.

How do I add extra flavor to the grains? Cook your grains in vegetable or chicken broth and season with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs for a flavor boost.

Can I substitute the sauces? Yes, you can swap tzatziki with a yogurt-based sauce, hummus with baba ganoush, or harissa with a milder chili paste if preferred.

How do I store leftovers? Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for maximum freshness.

Is this recipe gluten-free? It can be! Use gluten-free grains like quinoa and ensure any pita chips or sauces you use are gluten-free.

More Easy Copycat Recipes

• Air Fryer Garlic Paprika Chicken Drumsticks
• Air Fryer Chicken Fajita Burritos
• Air Fryer Peruvian Chicken Drumsticks

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