Ingredients
– 1 cup quinoa (or brown rice)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/3 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Making a Mediterranean Lunch Bowl is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:
1. Cook Quinoa (or Rice): Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Set aside.
3. Chickpeas: In a mixing bowl, combine the rinsed and drained chickpeas with a dash of olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Dressing: In another small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Bowl: Start with a base of the cooked quinoa in each serving bowl.
6. Top with Ingredients: Layer the prepared vegetables, chickpeas, avocado slices, feta cheese, and olives on top of the quinoa.
7. Garnish: Drizzle the lemon dressing over each bowl. Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
8. Serve: Enjoy immediately or cover and refrigerate for meal prep throughout the week!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 18 g
- Protein: 16 g