Quinoa bowls have taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. These nutrient-dense dishes are not only delicious, but also incredibly versatile. With their base of protein-rich quinoa, these bowls can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference. From hearty, comforting options like BBQ Chicken Quinoa Bowl with Avocado to light and refreshing choices like Thai Peanut Quinoa Bowl with Crunchy Veggies, there’s a quinoa bowl recipe out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering quinoa bowl recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic Mediterranean flavors to bold and spicy international inspirations, each of these bowls is packed with nutrients and flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or a little bit of both, there’s a quinoa bowl recipe on this list that’s sure to hit the spot.
Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl with Feta and Olives
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean in this quinoa bowl, featuring creamy feta cheese, briny olives, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add olives to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and transfer to a bowl.
5. Top quinoa with the onion and olive mixture, crumbled feta cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Southwest Quinoa Bowl with Black Beans
This vibrant quinoa bowl combines nutty black beans, spicy roasted vegetables, and a tangy drizzle of citrus-herb sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss bell peppers, onion, and garlic with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, roasted vegetables, cooked quinoa, and lime juice. Season to taste.
4. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Quinoa Bowl with Tzatziki Sauce
A refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the cooling tanginess of tzatziki sauce, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a separate bowl, combine yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form tzatziki sauce.
3. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and divide among bowls.
4. Top each bowl with a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Quinoa Bowl with Crunchy Veggies
This flavorful bowl combines the creaminess of Thai peanut sauce with the nutty goodness of quinoa, crunchy veggies, and a sprinkle of toasted peanuts. A nutritious and filling meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon Thai peanut sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup toasted peanuts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Thai peanut sauce and 1 tablespoon water until smooth.
3. Heat the peanut sauce mixture in a non-stick pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until warm and fragrant.
4. Toss cooked quinoa with the warmed peanut sauce, chopped veggies, and toasted peanuts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Quinoa Bowl with Avocado
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of BBQ chicken with the nutty goodness of quinoa and the creaminess of avocado, all in one satisfying bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and crumbled feta cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 1 tablespoon of water.
5. Toss cooked chicken in the BBQ sauce mixture until coated.
6. Assemble bowls by placing cooked quinoa at the bottom, followed by grilled chicken, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon Quinoa Bowl with Broccoli
This Teriyaki Salmon Quinoa Bowl is a flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the richness of salmon, the nuttiness of quinoa, and the crunch of broccoli. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and broccoli florets. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
5. Mix teriyaki sauce with 1 tbsp water in a small bowl. Brush the mixture on both sides of salmon fillets.
6. Assemble bowls by placing cooked quinoa at the bottom, topped with salmon, broccoli, and garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowl with Hummus
Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowl with Hummus Recipe
A hearty and healthy bowl filled with roasted vegetables, creamy hummus, and nutty quinoa – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small red onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Hummus (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water/broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender.
3. While the quinoa cooks, toss bell peppers, onion, garlic, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked quinoa between two bowls, then top with roasted vegetables and hummus.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Mexican Quinoa Bowl with Corn and Salsa
This vibrant bowl is a flavorful blend of nutritious quinoa, sweet corn, tangy salsa, and creamy avocado. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade salsa
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked quinoa, corn kernels, and salsa.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with diced avocado and desired toppings (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Lime Shrimp Quinoa Bowl
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and flavorful bowl filled with succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and nutty quinoa. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro, scallions, or lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Cut avocado into small pieces and squeeze lime juice over them.
4. To assemble the bowl, place cooked quinoa at the base, followed by grilled shrimp, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped herbs or a lime wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curry Chickpea Quinoa Bowl with Spinach
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with the warmth of curry, the creaminess of chickpeas, and the freshness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, and chickpeas to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with the curry mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken Quinoa Bowl
A sweet and tangy twist on a classic chicken dish, this honey mustard chicken quinoa bowl is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard.
3. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with the honey-mustard mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, diced red bell pepper, and chicken breast. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Quinoa Bowl with Sundried Tomatoes
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with nutty quinoa, vibrant sundried tomatoes, and the rich taste of pesto. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sundried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the pesto and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine the cooked quinoa and pesto mixture in a bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean BBQ Beef Quinoa Bowl
This recipe combines the savory flavors of Korean BBQ with nutritious quinoa and crunchy vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 lb beef (such as flank steak or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, etc.)
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, marinate beef in Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or stir-fry beef until cooked through.
4. Toss mixed vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add to the pan with the beef and cook until tender.
5. Assemble bowls by placing quinoa at the bottom, followed by beef and vegetables, finishing with green onions on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Quinoa Bowl with Apricots
Moroccan Spiced Quinoa Bowl with Apricots Recipe
Buffalo Cauliflower Quinoa Bowl
This recipe combines the flavors of buffalo chicken wings with roasted cauliflower and quinoa, creating a healthier and vegan-friendly alternative to traditional buffalo wings. This bowl is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, scallions, or crumbled vegan blue cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, hot sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Spread cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
5. Combine roasted cauliflower and cooked quinoa in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped herbs or crumbled vegan blue cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Kale Quinoa Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the earthy sweetness of kale, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve cooked quinoa topped with the kale mixture and optional feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Chickpeas
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and nutritious quinoa bowl, infused with the zesty flavors of lemon and herbs. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– Optional: feta cheese, chopped scallions, or lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together parsley, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir into cooked quinoa.
4. To assemble the bowls, divide quinoa mixture onto plates, top with roasted chickpeas, and garnish with optional feta cheese, scallions, or lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Taco Quinoa Bowl with Guacamole
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious taco quinoa bowl, topped with a creamy guacamole. This recipe combines the best of Mexican cuisine with the heartiness of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning (vegetarian)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Guacamole (recipe below)
Guacamole:
– 3 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until tender.
3. Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn kernels. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Assemble bowls with cooked quinoa, taco mixture, and guacamole.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 delicious quinoa bowl recipes! From Mediterranean to Thai, and from BBQ to Korean BBQ, there’s something for everyone. Each bowl is packed with nutritious ingredients like black beans, roasted veggies, avocado, and more. Try making a Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl with feta and olives, or spice things up with a Spicy Southwest Quinoa Bowl featuring black beans. There are even options for seafood lovers, like the Teriyaki Salmon Quinoa Bowl. These recipes are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch on-the-go.
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