Mediterranean Grain Bowl

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 vibrant grain bowl quickly became a favorite in my household for easy weekday lunches that don't sacrifice taste or health.

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

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

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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 to 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.

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

Check price on Amazon

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

Check price on Amazon

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Sharing this colorful dish around the table always sparks lively conversation and joy among family members.

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.

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Measure spices, liquids, and baking ingredients accurately for consistent results in cooking and baking.

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This Mediterranean Grain Bowl is perfect for meal prep or a quick nutritious lunch any day of the week.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I substitute the grains?

Yes, quinoa, farro, bulgur, or brown rice can be used interchangeably based on your preference or dietary needs.

→ How can I make it vegan-friendly?

Simply omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative to keep the dish vegan.

→ What dressing ingredients are used?

The dressing includes extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

→ Can this dish be served warm?

Yes, the grains can be served warm or at room temperature, while the fresh vegetables maintain a crisp texture.

→ Are there alternative toppings?

Toast pine nuts can be swapped for almonds or sunflower seeds, and additional proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas can be added.