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Calling all busy people! If you’ve got five minutes to spare, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go. Introducing the Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa Meal Prep – a microwave-friendly, low-mess recipe that will have you feeling like a kitchen superhero. Get ready to say goodbye to boring lunches and hello to a flavor-packed, satisfying meal that will power you through the day.

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Why You’ll Love This Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa Meal Prep

This recipe is a game-changer for busy folks who want to eat well without the fuss. With its bright, tangy flavors and satisfying texture, this Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa Meal Prep checks all the boxes. It’s a cozy, comforting one-bowl wonder that’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for meal prepping. Plus, the microwave-friendly cooking method means you can have a real-life, wholesome meal in minutes, no matter how hectic your schedule may be.

Ingredients (Single-Serve)

This recipe uses a simple, straightforward ingredient list that you can easily find at your local grocery store. The star of the show is quinoa, a superfood grain that’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. To give it a zesty kick, we’ll be using fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a blend of fragrant herbs like parsley, dill, and chives. Rounding out the dish are some crunchy veggies, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

1 cup (dry) – Quinoa, rinsed
2 cups – Water
1 tablespoon – Fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon – Fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon – Fresh chives, chopped
1 – Lemon, zested and juiced
1 tablespoon – Olive oil
1/2 teaspoon – Salt
1/4 teaspoon – Black pepper

Ingredient Substitutions

Herbs: Swap out the herbs for your favorites, like basil, mint, or rosemary (they all work beautifully with the lemon)
Dairy-free: Use a plant-based cheese or skip the feta to make this recipe vegan

How to Make Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa Meal Prep

This Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa Meal Prep is a breeze to put together. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a flavor-packed, nutrient-dense dish that’s perfect for meal prepping or a quick weeknight dinner.

Step 1: Prep Work

Start by rinsing the quinoa to remove any bitterness. Then, grab a microwave-safe bowl and add the quinoa, water, and a pinch of salt. Cover and microwave for 5 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process

While the quinoa is cooking, chop the parsley, dill, and chives. Zest the lemon and then juice it, being careful to avoid any seeds. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped herbs, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly

Divide the Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa into meal prep containers or bowls. Top with any extra veggies, such as diced cucumber or cherry tomatoes, for a colorful and satisfying meal.

Variations & Time-Saver Tips

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, roasted tofu, or canned chickpeas for an extra protein punch
Crunchy Garnish: Sprinkle on some toasted nuts or seeds for a satisfying crunch
Swap the Citrus: Try using lime or orange juice and zest instead of lemon
Make it Vegan: Omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative

Serving, Storage & Reheat

Serve with: Roasted veggies, a fresh green salad, or a side of hummus and pita.

Storage: Store the Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Microwave Reheat: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the quinoa in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Make-Ahead: This recipe is a meal prep dream come true! Whip up a batch on the weekend and you’ll have delicious, nutritious lunches or dinners ready to go all week long.

Nutrition Info

This Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa Meal Prep is a nutritional powerhouse. Each serving provides a good amount of complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied. It’s also a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and magnesium. With its balance of macronutrients and antioxidant-rich ingredients, this dish is a real-life, stress-free way to nourish your body.

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 330 kcal
Protein: 12 g
Carbs: 46 g
Fat: 12 g
Sodium: 390 mg

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked quinoa for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked quinoa will make this recipe even quicker and easier. Simply skip the microwave step and add the pre-cooked quinoa directly to the mixing bowl.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa Meal Prep vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative. You can also swap the olive oil for a neutral-flavored vegetable oil.

Can I freeze this quinoa dish?

Yes, you can! This quinoa meal prep freezes beautifully. Portion it out into individual servings and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave.

How can I add more protein to this recipe?

To boost the protein in this dish, try adding grilled chicken, roasted tofu, or canned chickpeas. You can also sprinkle on some nuts or seeds for an extra nutrient and protein punch.

What are some ways to customize the flavors?

The great thing about this recipe is that it’s so versatile. Try swapping the herbs for different combinations, like basil and mint, or rosemary and thyme. You can also play with the citrus by using lime or orange juice and zest instead of lemon.

Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa Meal Prep