Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This quinoa bowl is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrients. The quinoa provides a hearty base, while the fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, and zesty lemon juice add freshness and crunch. It’s a perfect way to fuel your body with a wholesome meal that keeps you satisfied throughout the day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- ½ avocado, sliced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish
- Optional toppings: nuts, seeds, or feta cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Quinoa:
If you haven’t already cooked the quinoa, rinse it under cold water and cook according to the package instructions, typically using a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to water. - Prep the Veggies:
While the quinoa cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and bell pepper. Set them aside. - Assemble the Base:
In a bowl, add the cooked quinoa as your base layer. - Add the Veggies:
Layer the sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper on top of the quinoa. - Dress It Up:
Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the top, then season with salt and pepper to taste. - Add Garnish:
Finish with fresh herbs, and feel free to add any optional toppings like nuts, seeds, or crumbled feta cheese. - Serve:
You can enjoy this dish warm or cold. Dig in and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1 bowl
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0-15 minutes (if quinoa is already prepared)
Variations
- Extra Protein: Add cooked chicken, tofu, or beans for a boost of protein.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use Different Veggies: Feel free to swap or add any of your favorite vegetables such as carrots, radishes, or spinach.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover quinoa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This quinoa bowl can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the microwave for a quick meal.
FAQs
Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa with couscous, farro, or rice if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking method accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! You can prepare the quinoa and vegetables in advance and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat. Just keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent sogginess.
Can I add more toppings to this bowl?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or crumbled cheese for extra texture and flavor. Roasted chickpeas or hummus would also be great additions.
Is this quinoa bowl gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this bowl a perfect option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this bowl vegan?
Yes! This quinoa bowl is already vegan. If you want extra protein, you can add beans or tofu for a more filling meal.
Conclusion
This Quinoa Bowl is a perfect example of how a quick, easy meal can also be incredibly nutritious and satisfying. Packed with fresh veggies, healthy fats, and plant-based protein, it’s an ideal dish to start your day or enjoy anytime you need a wholesome meal. Whether you keep it simple or add extra toppings, this quinoa bowl is sure to become a regular part of your meal rotation!
Quinoa Bowl: An Incredible Ultimate 5-Minute Start to Your Day
This Quinoa Bowl is a simple, nutritious, and flavorful way to kick-start your day! Packed with fresh veggies, healthy fats, and protein-rich quinoa, it’s an easy-to-make, customizable meal that can be enjoyed warm or cold.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0-15 minutes (if quinoa is already prepared)
- Total Time: 15-30 minutes
- Yield: 1 bowl
- Category: Lunch
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
1 cup cooked quinoa
½ avocado, sliced
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup bell pepper, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Optional toppings: nuts, seeds, or feta cheese
Instructions
- If you haven’t already cooked the quinoa, rinse it under cold water and cook according to the package instructions, typically using a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to water.
- While the quinoa cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and bell pepper. Set them aside.
- In a bowl, add the cooked quinoa as your base layer.
- Layer the sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper on top of the quinoa.
- Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the top, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish with fresh herbs, and feel free to add any optional toppings like nuts, seeds, or crumbled feta cheese.
- Enjoy warm or cold.
Notes
Add cooked chicken, tofu, or beans for a boost of protein.
For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or hot sauce.
Use your favorite veggies like carrots, radishes, or spinach.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg