Beach Bowl Quinoa Crunch

Before diving into the ingredients that make this bowl a delight, let’s take a moment to appreciate quinoa itself. Quinoa, pronounced "keen-wah," is a seed that originates from the Andean region of South America, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years. Often categorized as a whole grain, quinoa is unique due to its high protein content and the presence of essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. This is particularly beneficial for vegetarians and vegans who are seeking to meet their protein needs through plant-based foods.

Embrace the flavors of summer with this vibrant Beach Bowl Quinoa Crunch recipe! Packed with nutritious ingredients like quinoa, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing, this bowl is not only visually appealing but also a powerhouse of health benefits. Perfect for meal prep or a light lunch, it's suitable for various dietary preferences. Enjoy the explosive combination of textures and flavors, and celebrate the bounty of seasonal produce with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

1 cup quinoa (rinsed)

2 cups vegetable broth or water

1 cup mixed bell peppers (diced)

1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)

1 cup cucumber (diced)

1 avocado (sliced)

1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)

1/2 cup roasted chickpeas (optional)

Juice of 1 lime

3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooling, dice the bell peppers, cucumber, and red onion. Cut cherry tomatoes in half and slice the avocado.

Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to create a zesty dressing.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced bell peppers, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and roasted chickpeas (if using). Drizzle the lime dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.

Serve: Divide the quinoa mixture into serving bowls. Top with sliced avocado and sprinkle with feta cheese.

Garnish (Optional): Add a wedge of lime or additional cilantro for garnish if desired.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings.