Middle Eastern Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl

Looking for a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing? This Middle Eastern Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl is loaded with wholesome ingredients and bold flavors that will leave you feeling energized and full.

With fluffy quinoa, protein-packed chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and a refreshing lemon-garlic dressing, this bowl is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead lunch. It’s simple, flavorful, and comes together in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re craving something light yet filling or looking for a plant-based option that doesn’t skimp on taste, this recipe is bound to become one of your go-to favorites.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then cook according to package instructions (about 15 minutes) until fluffy.
2. While quinoa cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chickpeas, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until lightly crisped.
3. In a large bowl, combine cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa and add to the vegetable bowl. Top with sautéed chickpeas.
6. Drizzle with lemon-garlic dressing and toss gently. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes when sautéing the chickpeas.
• Extra greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or arugula for added freshness and nutrients.
• Swap the grain: Try bulgur or couscous instead of quinoa for a different texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Approximate per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 11g
• Protein: 18g

Related Recipe

See the original recipe

This Middle Eastern Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl is the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family—it might just become your new favorite weeknight staple!