Pin it 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.
A personal favorite for its balance of textures and ease of preparation, this grain bowl always impresses guests with its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients.
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.
Pin it This dish always brings my family together especially on warm evenings when we want a light but satisfying meal.
Notes
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein 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
Nutritional Information
Calories 390 Total Fat 21 g Carbohydrates 38 g Protein 11 g per serving
Pin it 
This grain bowl is perfect for meal prep and stays fresh for days when stored properly.
Recipe Q&A
- → What grains work best in this bowl?
Quinoa, farro, bulgur, or brown rice all pair beautifully, depending on your preference and dietary needs.
- → Can I make a vegan version?
Yes, simply omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative to keep it dairy-free.
- → How should the dressing be prepared?
Whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- → What substitutions are recommended for the nuts?
Toasted almonds or sunflower seeds can replace pine nuts for a different crunch and flavor.
- → Can this dish be served warm or cold?
It can be enjoyed either way—warm grains with fresh vegetables or chilled as a refreshing side.