Let me tell you about my absolute favorite guilt-free afternoon pick-me-up that’ll make you forget all about those drive-thru cravings! Ladies (and gents), I present to you my Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl – it’s fresh, filling, and totally Instagram-worthy! _wink_
Y’all, I can’t even tell you how many times this recipe has saved me from reaching for those greasy fries when the afternoon slump hits. Trust me, your body will thank you later!
Here’s what you’ll need (shopping list ready!):
– 1 cup quinoa (any color, but I’m partial to tri-color because it’s prettier!)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup kalamata olives
– Fresh spinach leaves
– Crumbled feta cheese (because everything’s better with cheese, am I right?)
– Fresh lemon juice
– Extra virgin olive oil
– Mediterranean seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Now, let’s get cooking! (And no, it’s not rocket science 😉)
1. First, rinse your quinoa (don’t skip this step, unless you want bitter-tasting quinoa – been there, done that!). Cook it according to package instructions, usually about 15-20 minutes.
1. While that’s cooking, chop up all your veggies. I like to make everything bite-sized – nobody wants to wrestle with huge chunks during lunch!
1. Drain and rinse those chickpeas, then pat them dry. Here’s my secret trick: toss them with a little olive oil and Mediterranean seasoning, then pop them in the air fryer for 10 minutes at 390°F. They get perfectly crispy! No air fryer? No problem! You can use them straight from the can.
Hey, before we continue – if you’re loving this recipe so far, make sure to follow me on Newsbreak for more daily recipes that’ll make your taste buds dance! 💃
1. Once your quinoa has cooled slightly, start assembling your bowl. Layer spinach leaves at the bottom (because we’re fancy like that), then add the quinoa.
1. Top with your prepared veggies, chickpeas, and olives. Sprinkle that feta cheese like it’s confetti!
1. For the dressing, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, juice of one lemon, a pinch of Mediterranean seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drizzle it over your bowl like you’re on a cooking show!
The best part? This recipe makes enough for 2-3 servings, so you can meal prep for those busy days ahead. Store the components separately, and you’ve got yourself a fresh bowl whenever you need it!
Y’all, I cannot stress enough how this recipe has changed my afternoon snacking game. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and all those good-for-you nutrients that’ll keep you energized without that post-lunch food coma.
Don’t forget to follow me on Newsbreak for more delicious, healthy recipes that’ll make your taste buds and your waistline happy! Drop a comment below and let me know if you tried this recipe – I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you add your own twist? Share it with the community! We’re all in this healthy eating journey together, honey! 🥗✨
Remember, eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring – it’s all about making smart choices that taste amazing. Now, go make this bowl and show those fast food cravings who’s boss! 💪
