Description
A vibrant and nutritious Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl featuring protein-packed quinoa, fresh vegetables, kalamata olives, chickpeas, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon-oregano dressing. Perfect for a healthy vegetarian meal prep or a wholesome lunch that’s both filling and flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
Quinoa
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa (rinsed)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Vegetables and Mix-ins
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup cucumber (diced)
- ½ cup kalamata olives (sliced)
- ½ cup canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
Dressing and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: hummus or tzatziki for topping
Instructions
- Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or vegetable broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Let it cool slightly before assembling the bowl.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a bright, flavorful dressing.
- Assemble the power bowl: In a large bowl or individual serving bowls, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced kalamata olives, chickpeas, and thinly sliced red onion. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top.
- Dress and toss: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the assembled ingredients. Gently toss everything together to ensure each bite is coated with the zesty dressing and flavors are well distributed.
- Add optional toppings and serve: For added creaminess and extra flavor, top each bowl with a dollop of hummus or tzatziki if desired. Serve immediately for a fresh meal or chill the bowl and serve later as a refreshing cold salad.
Notes
- This power bowl can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—ideal for meal prepping lunches or quick dinners.
- Feel free to substitute vegetable broth with water for the quinoa if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper based on taste preference.
- Optional toppings like hummus or tzatziki add creaminess and additional Mediterranean flair.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
