Save A vibrant, wholesome bowl featuring fluffy grains, crisp greens, and Mediterranean-inspired toppings. Perfect as a light meal or a nourishing side, this dish bursts with fresh flavors and color.
This Mediterranean grain bowl quickly became a favorite in my kitchen for its balance of textures and ease of preparation
Ingredients
- Grains: 1 cup quinoa (or farro, bulgur, or brown rice), 2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
- Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 cup cucumber, diced, 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced, 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine), 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- Toppings: 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved, 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled, 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- Dressing: 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 garlic clove, minced, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Rinse the grains under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine grains and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until tender (about 15 20 minutes for quinoa adjust for other grains). Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
- Step 2:
- Prepare the dressing In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3:
- Arrange the mixed greens in the base of four bowls. Top with cooked grains.
- Step 4:
- Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and roasted red peppers over the grains.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle with olives, feta cheese, and toasted pine nuts.
- Step 6:
- Drizzle each bowl with the dressing just before serving.
- Step 7:
- Toss gently to combine, or serve layered for a composed presentation.
Save This dish often sparks lively family dinners filled with conversations about flavors and health
Notes
Swap pine nuts for toasted almonds or sunflower seeds if preferred. Pairs well with crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, knife and cutting board, small mixing bowl, whisk, serving bowls
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (feta cheese) and tree nuts (pine nuts). Omit or substitute ingredients as needed. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Save
This Mediterranean grain bowl is a versatile and healthy addition to your meal rotation sure to impress and satisfy
Recipe FAQs
- → What grains can I use for this grain bowl?
Quinoa is a great choice, but farro, bulgur, or brown rice work well too, offering different textures and flavors.
- → How can I make the dressing for the bowl?
Whisk extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create a bright and tangy dressing.
- → Can this bowl be made vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative for a vegan-friendly option.
- → What toppings add extra texture and flavor?
Kalamata olives, toasted pine nuts, and roasted red peppers add savory richness and crunchy contrast to the fresh vegetables.
- → Are there suggestions for adding protein?
Grilled chicken or chickpeas can be added for extra protein, enhancing the bowl’s heartiness.
- → What tools are needed to prepare this dish?
A medium saucepan for cooking grains, a small bowl for mixing dressing, a knife, cutting board, whisk, and serving bowls are recommended.