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Ultimate Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Lemon Tahini Dressing

Close-up of a vibrant Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and rich lemon tahini sauce.

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Prepare a fresh, satisfying Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl featuring fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, and a bright, homemade lemon tahini sauce. This recipe is suitable for a healthy lunch or quick dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 large cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • For the Lemon Tahini Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup tahini
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons cold water (or more, to thin)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the Quinoa: Combine the rinsed quinoa and water or broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
  3. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked quinoa among serving bowls.
  4. Add Vegetables and Protein: Top the quinoa evenly with the drained chickpeas, diced cucumber, halved tomatoes, sliced red onion, and olives.
  5. Finish: Drizzle a generous amount of the lemon tahini dressing over the ingredients in each bowl. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken breast or feta cheese.
  • You can prepare the quinoa and dressing up to two days ahead for easy meal prep.
  • If the dressing thickens while sitting, whisk in a few drops of water to restore the desired consistency.

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