What Macros Are The Best | How To Build The Ultimate Macro - Friendly Bowl

In the Fuel For Fat Loss program, there is a strong focus on eating the right macros for weight loss so we can ensure our bodies are getting exactly what they need to function, achieve a healthy weight, and help us feel our best. I often get asked what macros are the best for weight loss and an overall healthy diet. When it comes to cooking with macros, I like to focus on getting in enough carbs, protein, and healthy fats. One of my favorite ways to do this is by creating macro-friendly bowls! Not only are they super easy to make, but they are a great way to get in the macros you need while still getting the flavor and variety of foods that you crave. Plus, creating macro-friendly bowls is a great way to use leftovers or veggies that you have on hand before they go bad! There are so many mix-and-match combinations and you can get really creative with them. Read on to learn how to build the ultimate macro-friendly bowl so you can start savoring the deliciousness (and results!) too!

How to Build a Macro-Friendly Bowl

If you’re struggling with what to make for lunch or dinner, you can never go wrong with making a delicious, nutrient-packed bowl to help you get all of your macros in for the day. This is an especially great way to eat if you’re looking to eat macros for weight loss. 

Read on for a super easy guide to making macro-approved bowls that are good for you, easy to make, and taste great as well! Use this guide for ideas and inspiration as you create your own macro-friendly bowls. Once you get the basics down, you can have fun with it and mix-and-match macro-friendly ingredients to create your own bowl recipes!

Step 1: Choose Your Base

When choosing the base of your macro-friendly bowl, make sure to use a starchier carb. This ensures you are getting that fast-acting energy in your meal. I like to spread this on the bottom of the bowl.

A few great options for your base are:

  • Quinoa

  • Brown rice

  • Sweet potatoes

  • Lentils

  • Roasted veggies with black beans

  • Cauliflower rice with chickpeas

Step 2: Choose Your Protein

When picking a protein, check to see what you already have on hand. One of the many benefits of macro-friendly bowls is that you can use what you already have in your kitchen!  

A few great options for your protein are:

  • Chicken breast - baked, grilled, shredded

  • Chicken thighs

  • Edamame

  • Shrimp

  • Tempeh

  • Steak - high protein and high fat. (Make sure if using steak that it will balance your macros for the day. Those sneaky fats will get you!)

  • Salmon

  • Tofu

Step 3: Greens

Leafy greens are a great addition to any bowl, as they are packed with antioxidants and are a great source of fiber. 

A few great options for leafy greens are:

  • Kale - fresh, sautéed, or roasted

  • Spinach - fresh, or quickly sautéed

  • Mixed greens 

  • Collard greens

Step 4: Veggies

Veggies are where you can have a lot of fun when creating and customizing your macro-friendly bowls! You can choose from a variety of vegetables that you have on hand that are either fresh or cooked from frozen. You can leave the veggies fresh, sauté them in a pan, or even roast them in the oven. 

A few great options for veggies are:

  • Broccoli - roasted, fresh, or steamed

  • Bell peppers - fresh or sautéed

  • Red onion - raw or sautéed

  • Snap peas

  • Carrots - fresh shredded carrots are so good!

  • Cucumber

  • Baby tomatoes

  • Shredded cabbage

Step 5: Toppings

Once you have your base, protein, greens, and veggies, it’s time to top your bowl! This is where you can be as creative or as simple as you’d like.

A few great options for toppings are:

  • Coconut aminos

  • Sriracha

  • Salsa

  • Sea salt & black pepper

  • Fresh herbs - cilantro, dill, basil, or parsley

  • Fresh sprouts - broccoli or bean

  • Green onion

Step 6: Healthy Fats

Now for the last of the key macros for weight loss… healthy fats! Adding these healthy fats to your bowl will create the perfect balance. Just remember, too much healthy fats is not the best choice either. You want to ensure these yummy healthy fats balance your macros for the day without going overboard.

A few great options for healthy fats are:

  • Avocado

  • Drizzle of avocado oil

  • Sprinkle of shredded cheese

  • Hummus

  • Seeds - sunflower or pumpkin

  • Nuts - pine, pistachio, almond shavings

As a quick recap, first and foremost, pick your base. Then, add a protein. Layer on leafy greens and veggies. Have fun with toppings, and round out your bowl with healthy fats to make it complete! 

Just remember to track your macros to ensure your bowls still fit your daily allotment!

If you’re looking for some macro-bowl inspiration, be sure to check out my Bowls All Day Cookbook! 

Now it’s your turn! How will you make your bowl? I’d love to see your creations, so be sure to share it and tag me on Instagram!

Simone Lovell