Spinach and Feta Grain Bowl (Printable Version)

Vibrant Mediterranean bowl with quinoa, wilted spinach, feta, and fresh vegetables drizzled with lemon dressing.

# What You Need:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup quinoa uncooked or brown rice
02 - 2 cups vegetable broth or water

→ Vegetables

03 - 4 cups fresh spinach washed and roughly chopped
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
05 - 1 small cucumber diced
06 - 1 red bell pepper diced
07 - 1 small red onion thinly sliced

→ Dairy

08 - 3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled

→ Dressing

09 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
10 - 1.5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
11 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
12 - 1 garlic clove minced
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Optional Toppings

14 - 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds
15 - Fresh parsley chopped

# How To Make:

01 - In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth or water to a boil. Stir in quinoa or brown rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until tender and liquid is absorbed, approximately 15 minutes for quinoa or 35 minutes for brown rice. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add chopped spinach and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until just wilted. Remove from heat.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
04 - Divide cooked grains evenly among 4 serving bowls. Top each with sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
05 - Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over each bowl.
06 - Drizzle dressing over each bowl. Garnish with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds and fresh parsley if desired.
07 - Serve immediately at warm or room temperature.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Nutrient-Dense: Packed with fresh spinach, peppers, and whole grains.
  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
  • Versatile: Can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or cold as a salad.
02 -
  • Meal Prep: Store the dressing separately and drizzle just before eating to keep the vegetables crisp.
  • Texture Boost: Toasting the pine nuts for 1-2 minutes in a dry pan enhances their nutty flavor and adds crunch.
  • Dietary Check: Ensure your feta is certified gluten-free if catering to strict gluten-free diets.
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