Description
A vibrant and nutritious Quinoa-Chickpea Buddha Bowl with fresh vegetables and a zesty citrus dressing. This easy-to-make recipe combines fluffy quinoa, protein-packed chickpeas, crisp cucumber, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and baby spinach, all tossed in a bright and tangy dressing made with olive oil, lemon, and orange juice. Perfect for a quick, healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Quinoa and Chickpeas
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Vegetables and Greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Citrus Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Prepare Citrus Dressing: While the quinoa is cooking, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, fresh orange juice, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced avocado, baby spinach, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley.
- Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the citrus dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Serve the Buddha bowl immediately for a fresh taste, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
- Rinsing quinoa removes its natural bitterness and improves flavor.
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
- Avocado can brown quickly; add it just before serving or after chilling.
- Feel free to substitute fresh herbs like cilantro or basil if desired.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for meal prep or larger gatherings.
