Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl with LemonHerb Dressing

Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl With Lemonherb Dressin

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Introduction: Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl
Quick Hook
Fancy a bowl of sunshine? This Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl is bursting with flavour. It's dead easy to eat healthy when it tastes this good, right then, let's get this recipe cracking! The zesty lemon-herb dressing is the real star of the show.
Brief Overview
This bowl's inspired by sunny Mediterranean coasts, filled with goodness. It's an easy healthy recipe that takes about 40 minutes from start to finish.
This recipe makes 4 generous servings, perfect for sharing... or not!
Main Benefits
This bowl is packed with plant-based protein and nutrients. It's brilliant for a light lunch or a quick healthy dinner .
Honestly, what makes it special is how customisable it is – chuck in whatever veggies you fancy! It's a proper nutritious bowl recipe and really helps you eat healthy .
Okay, Right Then - Let's Talk Ingredients!
Considering the recipe and the whole eat healthy vibe, here's my take. The base is quinoa, a fantastic plant-based protein source.
You'll need about 1 cup of it, cooked in vegetable broth for extra flavour. Make sure you rinse it, or it can taste a bit bitter!
Next up, the veggies. Think 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 cup of diced cucumber, and ½ cup each of chopped red onion and Kalamata olives.
Parsley adds freshness, so grab about ½ cup of that too. I once forgot the olives and it just wasn't the same.
And don't forget the Healthy Mediterranean Recipes Lemon-Herb Dressing! Olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Give it a good whisk! Finally, crumble 4 ounces of feta on top. If you're feeling fancy, add hummus, toasted pine nuts, or avocado.
This quinoa bowl recipe is amazing.
I often make a big batch of this for healthy meal prep . It stays good in the fridge for a few days, making those healthy lunch ideas a reality.
Honestly, it's a lifesaver when I'm too knackered to cook. And it's all thanks to embracing Mediterranean diet recipes !
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started
Okay, right then, let's get this cracking! This Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl is all about fresh, vibrant ingredients. It's super easy healthy recipes and really does make you eat healthy without feeling like you're missing out.
Trust me, it's far from boring rabbit food!
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
- Quinoa: 1 cup (200g) , rinsed. Quality quinoa is key . Look for a consistent colour and no weird smells.
- Veggie Broth/Water: 2 cups (475ml) .
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5g) .
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup (150g) , halved.
- Cucumber: 1 cup (150g) , diced.
- Red Onion: 1/2 cup (75g) , finely chopped.
- Kalamata Olives: 1/2 cup (75g) , pitted and halved.
- Fresh Parsley: 1/2 cup (30g) , chopped.
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60ml) , extra virgin. Good quality olive oil makes a difference!
- Lemon Juice: 3 tablespoons (45ml) , fresh.
- Red Wine Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
- Garlic: 1 clove , minced.
- Fresh Oregano: 1 tablespoon (15g) , chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried).
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (3g) .
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1g) .
- Feta Cheese: 4 ounces (115g) , crumbled. Good feta is salty and tangy.
- Optional: Hummus, toasted pine nuts, avocado slices
Seasoning Notes: Adding that Zing
Essential for this Quinoa Bowl Recipe is the lemon-herb dressing. The oregano and garlic really punch up the flavour. And Honestly I use it for Healthy Meal Prep , It is such a great base for other Healthy Mediterranean Recipes .
If you're out of fresh oregano, dried oregano works fine. Just use half the amount. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice little kick too! For a slightly different take, try basil or mint.
The possibilities are endless, you know?
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don't need fancy gear to whip this up. I've made this countless times using just the basics.
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl or jar for dressing
- Whisk
- Chopping board
- Knife
If you don't have a whisk, a fork will do the trick. Don't stress! And if you are looking for Healthy Lunch Ideas , or a Quick Healthy Dinner this is as easy as it comes.
This Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl is a fantastic source of Plant-Based Protein and the perfect way to create Nutritious Bowl Recipes .
So there you have it. Now you are ready to make some Mediterranean Diet Recipes that will have you feeling great!
Cooking Method: Quinoa the Right Way for a Tasty Mediterranean Bowl
Okay, right then , let's get this quinoa cracking! I'm going to show you how to cook perfect quinoa. I've had my fair share of mushy quinoa disasters.
Honestly, it's not a great start to any meal, especially if you want to eat healthy . But fear not, I've cracked the code, and it's easier than you think.
Prep Steps: Your Quinoa Command Centre
First things first, rinse your quinoa. Seriously, don't skip this step! It gets rid of the bitter stuff. Then, measure out your ingredients.
Having everything ready is key to quick, successful cooking. Think of it as your essential mise en place . For this Quinoa Bowl Recipe , you'll need 1 cup of quinoa, 2 cups of vegetable broth (or water), and a pinch of salt.
That's it!
Step-by-Step: Quinoa Perfection
Here's the easy bit:
- Combine rinsed quinoa, broth, and salt in a saucepan.
- Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low.
- Cover the pan and simmer for 15- 20 minutes .
- Check if all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
That's your sign of doneness. If there's still liquid, cook for a few more minutes.
Pro Tips: Elevate Your Quinoa Game
Want to level up your quinoa? Toast it in a dry pan for a few minutes before cooking. It adds a nutty flavour.
Be careful not to burn it though. Common mistake to avoid: overcooking. Set a timer and stick to it. You can even make the quinoa ahead of time.
It keeps well in the fridge for a few days. That's a great way to ensure you can eat healthy consistently during the week.
These bowls are super popular for Healthy Meal Prep . You can prepare everything in advance.
Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl is one of the best Healthy Mediterranean Recipes you can prepare ahead of time.
It gives you options for Quick Healthy Dinner when you are in a rush.
Recipe Notes: Your Path to Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl Perfection
Alright, so you're ready to dive into making this banging Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl Recipe ? Ace! Before you get started, let's chat about some insider tips and tricks.
Honestly, these are the things I wish I knew the first time I made it!
Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Bowl Game
Okay, right then, let's get this keyword cracking! Presentation is key. Heap that Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl into a nice bowl.
A drizzle of extra dressing never hurts. For a fancy touch, arrange some extra feta crumbles and fresh herbs on top.
Want a sidekick? Some warm pita bread or grilled halloumi cheese would be amazing. And to drink? I like a crisp, dry white wine, or even just some sparkling water with a lemon slice.
Proper tasty!
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
If you’re thinking of Healthy Meal Prep , this recipe is ideal. Got leftovers? No worries! Store the quinoa bowl in an airtight container in the fridge.
It'll keep for up to 3 days. Don't add the dressing until just before serving, otherwise the veggies will get soggy.
Nobody wants a soggy salad.
Freezing isn't really recommended. The veggies will lose their texture. Reheating is super easy! Just give it a quick toss in the microwave or eat it cold straight from the fridge.
Variations: Make it Your Own
Fancy a change? Easy peasy! For a plant-based protein boost, add some chickpeas or grilled tofu. Swapping things around is great if you want Easy Healthy Recipes.
Feeling seasonal? In summer, try adding fresh watermelon or peaches. In winter, roasted butternut squash would be delicious. This bowl is so adaptable, it's mad!
Nutrition Basics: Feel Good Food
This Nutritious Bowl Recipe is packed with goodness. It’s a top choice in Healthy Mediterranean Recipes . Each serving is around 350-400 calories.
You're getting a good dose of protein (about 15g), healthy fats (around 20g), and complex carbs (around 35g).
Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it has all nine essential amino acids. Plus, all those veggies are full of vitamins and antioxidants.
This Quick Healthy Dinner is an easy way to eat healthy and feel brilliant.
So, there you have it! With these notes, you're all set to create your own amazing Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl . Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with it! This dish isn’t just healthy , it’s a great way to enjoy the benefits of the Mediterranean Diet Recipes .
Get in the kitchen and give it a go. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl really that good for you? I'm trying to eat healthy, you know?
Absolutely! This bowl is packed with goodness. The quinoa is a complete protein and a great source of fibre, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. The vegetables provide loads of vitamins and minerals, and the olive oil contributes healthy fats. It's a win-win for taste and nutrition!
Can I prep this Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl ahead of time to eat healthy throughout the week?
You bet! This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Cook the quinoa and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Whisk the dressing and keep that separate too. When you're ready to eat, just combine everything and add the feta. It'll stay fresh for 3-4 days, easy peasy!
I'm not a big fan of Feta. What else can I use in this Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl?
No worries, there are plenty of substitutes! Goat cheese would be a delicious alternative, offering a similar tanginess. Grilled halloumi is another fantastic option, adding a salty and slightly chewy texture. For a dairy-free version, try a dollop of hummus or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to mimic that cheesy flavour. You could even add some toasted nuts for extra crunch!
My quinoa always seems to turn out mushy. Any tips for cooking it perfectly?
Ah, the dreaded mushy quinoa! The key is to rinse it well before cooking to remove the saponins, which can cause a bitter taste and contribute to the mushiness. Also, be sure to use the correct water-to-quinoa ratio – usually 2 parts liquid to 1 part quinoa. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for the recommended time. Avoid stirring it too much during cooking, as that can also make it mushy. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Can I add protein to this bowl to make it a more substantial meal?
Absolutely! This bowl is a great base for adding extra protein. Grilled chicken or fish are classic choices that pair wonderfully with the Mediterranean flavours. Chickpeas or other beans are also a great option for a vegetarian or vegan protein boost. Even a hard-boiled egg adds a nice dose of protein and healthy fats.
I'm on a low-carb diet. Is there a way to adapt this recipe to eat healthy without so many carbs?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe lower in carbs! The main culprit is the quinoa, so substitute it with riced cauliflower. Riced cauliflower has a similar texture but far fewer carbohydrates. You could also reduce the amount of quinoa and increase the amount of vegetables. Focus on non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. Don't forget to adjust the nutritional information accordingly.