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Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl (20-Minute Meal Prep)


If you’re looking for a healthy lunch that actually keeps you full and tastes amazing days later, this Mediterranean quinoa bowl is about to become your new meal prep staple. It’s colorful, fresh, packed with protein and fiber, and comes together in just 20 minutes β€” perfect for busy weeks.

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Mediterranean-style meals are known for supporting heart health, digestion, and stable energy levels. This bowl combines fluffy quinoa with crisp vegetables, creamy feta, healthy fats from olive oil, and bright lemony flavors that never get boring. It’s one of those recipes that feels indulgent but leaves you feeling light, energized, and satisfied.

Quinoa is a complete plant-based protein and naturally gluten-free, making it ideal for gut-friendly meal prep. When paired with fiber-rich vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and spinach, it supports digestion and helps prevent blood sugar spikes. Add chickpeas or grilled chicken, and you’ve got a balanced meal that fuels you for hours.

I love this recipe because it works for everything: weekday lunches, quick dinners, and even potlucks. It’s easy to customize, budget-friendly, and holds up beautifully in the fridge β€” no soggy leftovers here.

If you enjoy simple, nourishing bowls like my Acai Smoothie Bowl or Anti-Inflammatory Recipes, this Mediterranean quinoa bowl fits right into that routine. It’s especially helpful if you’re focusing on stress reduction and hormone balance, since balanced meals are key for keeping cortisol steady.

πŸ‘‰ Don’t forget to grab my free 7-Da7-Day Cortisol Detox Plan Complete Nutrition & Training Reset Programy Cortisol Detox Plan to pair with easy, balanced meals like this one.


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Why This Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl Works

This recipe checks all the boxes for a high-performing meal prep dish:

  • High-Protein & Filling: Quinoa + chickpeas keep you satisfied
  • Gut-Friendly: Fiber-rich veggies support digestion
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Olive oil, lemon, and herbs reduce inflammation
  • Meal-Prep Approved: Stays fresh for days
  • Customizable: Add chicken, salmon, or keep it vegan
  • Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients, big flavor

πŸ‘‰ For more balanced lunches, explore our Gut-Healthy Meal Prep Recipes .


Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa: Complete protein and fiber-rich base
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Antioxidant-rich and juicy
  • 1 cup cucumber, chopped: Adds crunch and hydration
  • Β½ cup chickpeas: Plant-based protein and fiber
  • ΒΌ cup red onion: Sharp flavor + gut-supporting compounds
  • ΒΌ cup crumbled feta: Creamy, salty balance
  • 2 tbsp olive oil: Heart-healthy fats
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens everything
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Optional: Kalamata olives, parsley, grilled chicken

How to Make Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Prepare quinoa according to package instructions and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Chop Vegetables
Dice cucumber, tomatoes, and onion evenly for best texture.

Step 3: Mix Dressing
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
Combine quinoa, veggies, chickpeas, and feta in a large bowl.

Step 5: Toss & Serve
Drizzle dressing, toss gently, and enjoy!


Recipe Card

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup cucumber
  • Β½ cup chickpeas
  • ΒΌ cup red onion
  • ΒΌ cup feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Cook quinoa and let cool
  2. Chop vegetables
  3. Mix dressing
  4. Combine everything in a bowl
  5. Toss and serve

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)

  • Calories: 380
  • Protein: 14g
  • Carbs: 45g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Fiber: 8g

Meal Prep Instructions

This Mediterranean quinoa bowl is ideal for weekly meal prep.

How to Meal Prep:

  1. Cook quinoa and let it cool completely
  2. Chop all vegetables
  3. Store dressing separately
  4. Assemble bowls when ready to eat or toss just before serving

Best Add-Ins for Meal Prep:

  • Grilled chicken or salmon
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Extra chickpeas or white beans

Storage Tips (Fridge & Freezer)

Fridge:

  • Store in airtight containers for up to 4–5 days
  • Keep dressing separate for best texture

Freezer:

  • Freeze quinoa + chickpeas only (up to 2 months)
  • Add fresh veggies after thawing

Tips & Variations

Make It Vegan:
Skip feta or use dairy-free cheese.

Add More Protein:
Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or baked salmon.

Change the Grain:
Sub quinoa with farro or brown rice.

Flavor Boost:
Add hummus, tzatziki, or roasted garlic.


FAQs

Is quinoa good for meal prep?
Yes! It holds texture well and reheats beautifully.

Can I eat this cold?
Absolutely β€” it’s delicious chilled.

Is this good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s high in fiber and protein, which supports fullness.

Can I make this vegan?
Yes, simply omit feta or use a plant-based option.

How do I prevent soggy bowls?
Keep dressing separate until serving.

Can I use canned quinoa?
You can, but freshly cooked tastes best.


Related Recipes

  • Anti-Inflammatory Dinner Recipes
  • Gut-Healthy Lunch Bowls
  • Easy Chickpea Salad

Did you try this Mediterranean quinoa bowl?


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πŸ‘‰ Download the free 7-Day Cortisol rest plan 7-Day Cortisol Detox Plan Complete Nutrition & Training Reset Programsol Detox Plan to make healthy meal prep effortless.


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