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Fresh Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl with Easy Creamy Tahini Dressing

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A vibrant and satisfying Mediterranean quinoa bowl featuring fresh vegetables and a luscious creamy tahini dressing. Perfect for a quick, nourishing meal that feels indulgent and wholesome.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) uncooked quinoa, rinsed well
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • ¼ cup (60ml) tahini paste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tablespoons water (more as needed for consistency)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold running water for about 30 seconds using a fine mesh strainer to remove the saponin coating. Shake off excess water.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups (480ml) water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer gently for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and quinoa is tender.
  3. Remove from heat and let quinoa sit covered for 5 minutes to steam. Fluff with a fork.
  4. While quinoa cooks, dice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, slice Kalamata olives, finely chop red onion, and roughly chop parsley and mint.
  5. In a small bowl or blender, combine tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, water, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk or blend until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped vegetables, herbs, and feta cheese if using. Pour tahini dressing over and toss gently until evenly coated.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or lemon juice if needed.
  8. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Rinse quinoa thoroughly to avoid bitterness. Do not overcook quinoa to maintain a pleasant bite. Add water gradually to tahini dressing to achieve silky smooth consistency. Store dressing separately if preparing in advance to keep veggies crisp. Rest quinoa after cooking for fluffiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean quinoa bowl, tahini dressing, healthy lunch, easy quinoa recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free, meal prep

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/fresh-mediterranean-quinoa-bowl-recipe-easy-creamy-tahini-dressing-guide/