Save on Pinterest 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 my go-to for busy weeknights because it is easy to make yet feels special.
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 on Pinterest This bowl has become a family favorite especially for its fresh ingredients and versatility.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories 390 Total Fat 21 g Carbohydrates 38 g Protein 11 g per serving
Save on Pinterest Enjoy your Mediterranean Grain Bowl fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What grains work best for this bowl?
Quinoa, farro, bulgur, or brown rice are excellent choices as they provide a fluffy texture and soak up the dressing well.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative to keep it plant-friendly.
- → How should the dressing be prepared?
Whisk together extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper for a bright, flavorful dressing.
- → Are there good protein additions for this bowl?
Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or other legumes can enhance the protein content and add heartiness to the dish.
- → Can I substitute the pine nuts in the toppings?
Yes, toasted almonds or sunflower seeds make great alternatives, adding crunch and nutty flavor.