Name: Nourishing Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups water; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olives, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Attention, busy home chefs! Are you tired of the same old boring meals that leave you feeling sluggish and unsatisfied? Introducing the Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl – a quick, easy, and nourishing dish that’s about to become your new weeknight go-to. This colorful bowl is packed with real, whole-food ingredients that will fuel your body and satisfy your taste buds. No more compromising between flavor and convenience; this recipe delivers both in spades. Get ready to experience the power of Mediterranean flavors in a matter of minutes.

Contents show

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl

This Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl is a game-changer for busy people who want to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of protein-packed quinoa, crisp veggies, and bold Mediterranean flavors creates a satisfying and nutritious meal that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied. Plus, it’s a one-bowl wonder that comes together in no time, making it the perfect solution for those hectic weeknights. With its fresh, vibrant ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is a surefire way to add some excitement back into your meal routine. Say goodbye to boring, uninspired meals and hello to a healthy, flavor-packed bowl that will have you coming back for more.

Ingredients (Single-Serve)

To make this Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl, you’ll need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients: cooked quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and a homemade dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and dried oregano. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – you can easily swap in your favorite fresh produce or customize the toppings to suit your taste buds.

1 cup – Cooked quinoa
1/2 cup – Diced cucumber
1/2 cup – Sliced cherry tomatoes
2 tbsp – Sliced red onion
2 tbsp – Pitted Kalamata olives, halved
2 tbsp – Crumbled feta cheese
1 tbsp – Olive oil
1 tbsp – Lemon juice
1 clove – Minced garlic
1 tsp – Dried oregano

Ingredient Substitutions

Feta cheese: Crumbled goat cheese or shredded mozzarella (for a creamier texture)
Quinoa: Cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice (for a low-carb swap)

How to Make Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl

This Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl is a total breeze to whip up – just a few simple steps and you’ve got a nutritious and delicious meal in no time!

Step 1: Prep Work

Start by cooking the quinoa according to the package instructions. While the quinoa is simmering, prepare the rest of your ingredients. Dice the cucumber, slice the tomatoes and red onion, and pitted Kalamata olives.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process

In a medium bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, sliced tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives. For the dressing, simply whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano in a small bowl.

Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly

Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture, then gently toss to coat everything evenly. Top the power bowl with the crumbled feta cheese, and you’re ready to enjoy!

Step 4: Finishing Touches

If you want to add a final touch of flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the top of the power bowl.

Variations & Time-Saver Tips

Customize It: Swap in your favorite seasonal veggies, such as roasted bell peppers or grilled zucchini. For a heartier meal, top it with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp.
Make-Ahead Magic: Cook the quinoa in advance and store it in the fridge, then all you have to do is assemble the rest of the ingredients when you’re ready to eat. This makes it a fantastic grab-and-go option for busy weekdays or as a make-ahead lunch.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of hummus or tzatziki sauce for a creamy twist on this power bowl.
Cheese, Please: Experiment with different cheeses, like crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, or even cubes of halloumi.

Serving, Storage & Reheat

Serve with: A slice of crusty bread, a handful of greens, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch.

Storage: This power bowl will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, stored in an airtight container.

Microwave Reheat: Simply pop the power bowl in the microwave for a minute or two, or give it a quick toss in a skillet over medium heat.

Make-Ahead: Cook the quinoa in advance and store it in the fridge, then assemble the rest of the ingredients when you’re ready to enjoy.

Nutrition Info

This Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with fiber, protein, and a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. The quinoa provides a complete protein, while the fresh veggies, olives, and feta cheese offer a range of antioxidants, healthy fats, and gut-friendly probiotics. Plus, the homemade dressing is a great source of monounsaturated fatty acids from the olive oil.

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 375 kcal
Protein: 14 g
Carbs: 40 g
Fat: 19 g
Sodium: 525 mg

FAQs

Can I make this power bowl ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. Cook the quinoa in advance and store it in the fridge, then simply assemble the rest of the ingredients when you’re ready to enjoy. The power bowl will keep well for up to 4 days, so you can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and have a nourishing meal on hand whenever you need it.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl is naturally gluten-free. Quinoa is a gluten-free grain, and all the other ingredients, such as the vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, are also gluten-free. This makes it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet or with gluten sensitivities.

Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! If you’re not a quinoa fan or simply want to switch it up, you can easily substitute the quinoa with cooked brown rice, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The flavors of the Mediterranean-inspired toppings will complement any of these grains beautifully.

Is this power bowl vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is vegetarian as written, with the feta cheese as the only non-vegan ingredient. To make it vegan, simply omit the feta or swap it for a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also add extra protein, such as chickpeas or tofu, to make it a more substantial meal.

How can I make this power bowl more filling?

If you’re looking to make this power bowl a bit more filling, you have a few options. Adding a protein-rich element, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas, can boost the staying power. You can also top it with a dollop of hummus or a fried or poached egg for an extra dose of nutrients and satiety.

Nourishing Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl