{"id":41446,"date":"2018-09-04T07:09:00","date_gmt":"2018-09-04T11:09:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ahealthysliceoflife.com\/?p=41446"},"modified":"2023-12-11T19:43:18","modified_gmt":"2023-12-12T00:43:18","slug":"copycat-cava-bowls","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ahealthysliceoflife.com\/copycat-cava-bowls\/","title":{"rendered":"Copycat CAVA Bowls for Weeknights"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

These Copycat Cava Bowls are a delicious and easy weeknight meal! With the help of a few key shortcuts, dinner comes together in less than 30 minutes. Try these the next time you are craving something new, fresh, and flavorful!<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you’re looking to infuse some excitement into your weeknight dinners, these Copycat Cava Bowls are just the ticket. Not only are they bursting with flavors, but they’re also remarkably easy to put together. In less than 30 minutes if you’re using the shortcuts outlines below, you can bring the essence of a fresh, flavorful meal to your table, perfect for those evenings when you crave something different and delightful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, I\u2019m not talking about those hectic Wednesday nights juggling dance classes, soccer practices, and parent meetings. Those evenings might call for something quick like my Slow Cooker Baked Ziti<\/a> drenches in some delicious marinara that you put together in the morning or some Oven Baked Bean Burritos<\/a> that bake up in only 10 minutes and can be dunked in guacamole. But on the nights where you have a bit more breathing space \u2013 say around 30 minutes to spare \u2013 these copycat CAVA bowls emerge as a fantastic choice. They offer a welcome break from the usual rotation of meals and are a fantastic way to shake up your dinner routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inspiration Behind Creating Copycat CAVA Bowls<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

My inspiration to recreate these bowls at home struck after a delightful first experience at CAVA<\/a>, a contemporary restaurant known for its Mediterranean and Greek offerings. CAVA’s approach to food is modern and casual yet rich in flavors, allowing customers to personalize their meals from a variety of dips, spreads, and even their popular sauces. Think Chipotle, but for Mediterranean flavors and even more options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is A CAVA Bowl?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A CAVA bowl is a delightful medley of flavors and textures, typically starting with a base of greens, grains, or a mix of both, and then layered with a variety of toppings and proteins. When I first contemplated recreating my favorite CAVA combination at home, I imagined it would be quite a challenge. The thought of juggling multiple ingredients and spending extensive time in the kitchen was a bit intimidating. However, I discovered that with a few smart shortcuts and the help of my trusty rice cooker, I could create something special without much hassle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The real charm of a CAVA bowl lies in its versatility and customizability. It’s a culinary canvas that allows each person to create a meal that suits their unique tastes. Whether you’re drawn to the bold flavors of red pepper, the refreshing zest of fresh lemon, or the tangy kick of kalamata olives, these bowls accommodate a wide range of ingredients. They’re also perfect for meal prep, as you can easily mix and match components to keep things interesting. And for protein lovers, adding options like succulent chicken breasts or savory chopped steak is a breeze. The result is a bowl recipe that not only satisfies the whole family but also turns an ordinary meal into a delightful culinary experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity for meal prep, a chance to play with flavors, and an invitation to bring a piece of the CAVA experience into your own home. So, let’s dive into how you can craft these delightful bowls and bring a touch of Mediterranean flair to your dinner table.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Copycat CAVA Bowl Base: A Foundation of Flavors and Textures<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Creating the perfect Copycat CAVA Bowl begins with choosing the right base. CAVA offers a variety of base options, ranging from greens and grains to pita, or even a combination of these. For my version, I wanted to ensure the base was hearty enough to satisfy a robust appetite (thinking of David here) but also light enough for those who prefer a less filling option (like myself).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easy CAVA Bowl Base Options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n