Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Difficulty: Easy
Diet: Vegetarian | Gluten-Free


Ingredients

For the quinoa

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the bowl

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ½ cup chickpeas, drained & rinsed
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint or basil, chopped (optional)

For the lemon-olive oil dressing

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the quinoa
    Add quinoa, broth, and salt to a saucepan.
    Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 12–15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
    Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the veggies
    While quinoa cooks, chop tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and herbs.
    Add to a large bowl along with olives, chickpeas, and feta.
  3. Make the dressing
    Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Assemble the bowl
    Add warm or cooled quinoa to the veggie mixture.
    Pour dressing over top and gently toss to combine.
  5. Serve
    Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Why You’ll Love This Bowl

  • 🥗 Fresh, bright Mediterranean flavors
  • 💪 High-protein, nutrient-dense quinoa
  • ⏱️ Meal-prep friendly (lasts 4 days in the fridge)
  • 🌱 Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian

Easy Add-Ons & Variations

  • Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or lamb
  • Make it vegan: Skip feta or use plant-based feta
  • Extra flavor: Roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes
  • Spice it up: Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes