Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl Recipe

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about gathering around the table to enjoy a meal that brings everyone together. The Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl is one such recipe that radiates warmth and togetherness, perfect for a sunny weekend brunch or a light and wholesome dinner. This delightful dish combines the hearty, nutty flavor of quinoa with the vibrant and fresh ingredients of the Mediterranean – juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber slices, and the salty bite of kalamata olives, all brought together with a tangy tahini-lemon dressing. It’s not just a meal; it’s a joyful, creative experience, encouraging family bonds and culinary exploration. If you’re looking to add a healthy, colorful, and incredibly delicious dish to your repertoire, this Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl is just the ticket!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced into half-moons
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed for dressing consistency)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is fully absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
2. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, pit and halve the olives, and finely chop the red onion and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and water to create a smooth, creamy dressing. Adjust the water amount based on your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, and parsley. If using, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
5. Drizzle the tahini-lemon dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl at room temperature or chilled for a refreshing experience.

Helpful Tips:

• For a vegan option, skip the feta cheese. The dish is flavorful enough without it!
• Cook the quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water for an added depth of flavor.
• Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers, grated carrots, or avocado.

Storage Instructions: Store the Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredient Substitutions: If tahini is unavailable, you can use a similar quantity of Greek yogurt to make the dressing creamy and tangy. Lemon juice can be substituted with lime juice for a different citrusy twist.

Pairing Suggestions: This vibrant quinoa bowl pairs fabulously with a side of warm pita bread and hummus. For a refreshing drink, serve it with a chilled glass of mint iced tea or a zesty lemonade.

At Zynahz, we believe in the joy of creative cooking and the beauty of shared family moments. We hope this Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl recipe lights up your kitchen and brings smiles to your dining table. Give it a try, share your delightful creations with us, and don’t forget to spread the love by passing on this recipe to your friends and family. Dive deeper into our culinary world by exploring more recipes on Zynahz, following us on social media, and signing up for our newsletter for the latest delicious updates. Let’s continue to cook, create, and connect!