Description
A vibrant and wholesome Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and a zesty lemon-oregano dressing, perfect for a nutritious main course that’s easy to prepare and ideal for meal prepping.
Ingredients
Scale
Quinoa Base
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Vegetables & Legumes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, keep covered, and let it rest for 5 minutes to steam. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and allow it to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Dressing: While the quinoa cooks, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- Assemble the Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, drained chickpeas, sliced Kalamata olives, and baby spinach or mixed greens.
- Add Dressing and Toss: Drizzle the prepared lemon-oregano dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Finish and Serve: Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese and serve immediately for a fresh taste or refrigerate to serve chilled as a refreshing meal prep option.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken or salmon to boost protein content if desired.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- This Mediterranean bowl stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it ideal for meal planning.
