Poke Bowls Are a Delicious Choice for Healthy Eating

Poke bowls have made getting a satisfying serving of healthy fats and lean protein both easy and affordable. A combination of raw, oily, omega-3 loaded fish, vegetables, and brown rice or quinoa all provide a filling, low-calorie meal that is friendly to both wallet and waistline. 

Poke (pronounced poh-kay) is Hawaiian for “cut crosswise into pieces”, which is fitting due to its diced-up presentation. This dish began making appearances in Hawaiian restaurants in the 1970s but didn't gain popularity in the continental United States until the early 2010s. With the advent of the popular keto diet and awareness of the benefits of fatty fish consumption, it's no wonder that poke has gained in significant popularity in recent years.

Poke bowls begin with a base of either brown rice, soba noodles, or quinoa followed by a protein of either fish or chicken and then capped off with an array of vegetables and a savory marinade or dressing. When put together, you have to admit it's not only appetizing, but also very attractive to look at. 

For sushi fans who are looking for a twist on raw fish dishes, poke is an excellent choice and one that in some local restaurants, like Motomaki, you can build to your own tastes. Those who are adhering to a strict diet have all the creative control and will leave feeling full without a high caloric intake. Also, fatty fish like salmon are attributed to heart health and is known to protect the brain from stroke and cognitive decline. 

Are you a poke fan? Tell us what you put in your poke in the comments section!

Craving something else? Visit these local restaurants that let you build your own meal