Delicious Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl Recipe

This Mediterranean quinoa bowl is a nutritious and vibrant dish packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and flavorful ingredients. It's perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner option.

The recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile choice for meal prep or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients for a Vibrant Bowl

Creating a Mediterranean quinoa bowl begins with selecting fresh and colorful ingredients. The foundation of this dish is fluffy quinoa, which serves as a nutritious base.

Next, vibrant cherry tomatoes add a burst of color and sweetness, while crisp cucumber provides a refreshing crunch. Sliced Kalamata olives introduce a savory depth, and crumbled feta cheese brings a creamy texture that complements the other flavors beautifully.

Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of herbal freshness.

Preparing the Quinoa

Cooking quinoa is a straightforward process that yields fluffy grains perfect for this bowl. Begin by rinsing the quinoa to remove any bitterness.

Combine the rinsed quinoa with water or vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until all the liquid is absorbed.

After cooking, allow the quinoa to rest for a few minutes before fluffing it with a fork. This step ensures that each grain is light and airy, ready to absorb the flavors of the toppings.

Chopping Fresh Vegetables

While the quinoa cooks, take the opportunity to prepare the fresh vegetables. Start by halving the cherry tomatoes and dicing the cucumber.

Finely chop the red onion for a bit of sharpness, and slice the olives to enhance their flavor.

Having all the vegetables prepped and ready to go makes assembling the bowl quick and easy, ensuring that each bite is packed with freshness.

Making the Lemon Vinaigrette

A tangy lemon vinaigrette ties all the elements of the bowl together. To create this dressing, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

This simple yet flavorful dressing adds brightness to the dish, balancing the richness of the feta and the savory notes of the olives.

Adjust the seasoning to taste, ensuring it complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Assembling the Bowl

Once the quinoa is fluffy and the vegetables are chopped, it’s time to assemble the bowl. Start by dividing the quinoa among serving bowls, creating a generous base.

Top the quinoa with the chopped vegetables, crumbled feta, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Finally, drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over each bowl, allowing the flavors to meld together. This dish can be served immediately or stored in the refrigerator for a quick meal later on.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean quinoa bowl is not only visually appealing but also versatile. It can be enjoyed as a main course or served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish.

For added protein, consider incorporating chickpeas or grilled chicken.

Feel free to customize the bowl with seasonal vegetables or your favorite toppings, making it a perfect choice for meal prep or a healthy weeknight dinner.

Healthy Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl Recipe

This quinoa bowl features fluffy quinoa as a base, topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese, all drizzled with a tangy lemon vinaigrette. The recipe takes about 30 minutes and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives. Set aside.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Bowl: Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and divide it among serving bowls. Top with chopped vegetables, feta cheese, and parsley.
5. Drizzle with Dressing: Pour the lemon vinaigrette over each bowl and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4 bowls
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 40g