Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowl

Name: Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained; 2 cups water; 1 lb ground turkey; 1 tsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, diced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making this Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowl, especially when I crave something nutritious yet satisfying. The blend of colorful vegetables, lean turkey, and protein-packed quinoa makes it a wholesome meal option. It's not just full of flavor; it also reflects the vibrant essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or dressings. Whether for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, this bowl has quickly become a family favorite in our home.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-20T13:37:19.035Z

When I first tried making a Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowl, I was blown away by how delicious and fulfilling it was. I discovered that to achieve the perfect balance of flavors, it's crucial to season the turkey well, allowing the Mediterranean spices to shine through. I also learned that mixing in fresh herbs right at the end makes a world of difference, enhancing the dish's freshness.

This bowl is not only tasty but also a visual delight. I love layering the ingredients; the vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and greens create an enticing presentation. I've even added a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick, elevating the flavors to another level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein and nutrients for a healthy meal
Vibrant colors make it visually appealing
Versatile toppings allow for personal customization

The Role of Quinoa

Quinoa serves as the perfect base for this Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowl due to its fluffy texture and nutty flavor. It is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies need. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain or build muscle. Ensure you rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste if left unremoved.

When cooking the quinoa, pay attention to the water ratio and cooking time. For perfect, fluffy quinoa, the standard ratio is 1 part quinoa to 2 parts water. If you prefer a firmer texture, reduce the water slightly. I recommend simmering until all water is absorbed and then letting it rest off the heat for about 5 minutes. This allows the grains to separate nicely, creating a delightful bite that balances well with the other ingredients in the bowl.

Ground Turkey Choice

The selection of ground turkey varies greatly in flavor and texture; thus, understanding the differences can enhance this dish significantly. Opt for a lean blend (93% lean is a great choice) to keep the calorie count down while still achieving moisture. If you want to make it even juicier, you could choose a ground turkey with a slightly higher fat content. The key is to avoid overcooking it; cook it until browned and just cooked through to keep it tender.

Adding spices to the turkey mixture not only boosts flavor but also creates a beautiful aroma while it's cooking. You can customize the flavor profile by experimenting with spices like smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or red pepper flakes for a kick. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as the turkey cooks; adding a pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the dish to new heights.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best aspects of the Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowl is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables according to what's in season or your preference. For instance, bell peppers, zucchini, or olives can make fantastic additions. If you're in the mood for something crunchy, consider adding roasted chickpeas or even sunflower seeds for a protein boost.

To enhance the Mediterranean flair, you might want to serve this bowl with a side of tzatziki or a drizzle of tahini dressing. These creamy elements match beautifully with the lemon juice and add another layer of flavor. When meal prepping, keep the components separate until you're ready to eat; this keeps the veggies crisp and prevents sogginess in your dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowl.

For the Bowl

1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
2 cups water
1 lb ground turkey
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, diced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowl.

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium pot, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

Prepare the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until turkey is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer quinoa, cooked turkey, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, feta cheese, and parsley.

Finish with Dressing

Drizzle lemon juice over the top and toss everything lightly before serving. Enjoy your fresh and tasty bowl!

Make sure to serve fresh for the best taste!

Pro Tips

Adding fresh herbs at the end can enhance the flavor of your dish. Don't skip the lemon juice, as it ties all the elements together beautifully.

Storage Tips

This Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowl is a fantastic meal prep option. After assembling, store the components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The quinoa and turkey can last in the refrigerator for up to four days, while the fresh vegetables are best used within two to three days. Make sure to keep the lemon juice and feta cheese separate until serving for optimal flavor.

If you're looking to freeze portions, freeze the cooked quinoa and turkey together and store the fresh ingredients in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply thaw the mixture overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This way, you can enjoy a healthy meal on busy days without any hassle.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowl, consider dressing it up with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or pistachios for a delightful crunch. Adding a dollop of hummus on the side can also enhance the flavor profile while providing extra creaminess.

Another great idea is to serve the bowl in a pita pocket for a fun twist. This allows for easy eating if you’re on the go. Pairing the dish with a light, refreshing cucumber salad on the side can also balance out the richness of the turkey and quinoa combination, rounding out your meal nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, the quinoa and turkey can be cooked ahead of time and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for ground turkey?

You can use ground chicken, beef, or plant-based protein if you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the ground turkey with a mix of cooked chickpeas or lentils for a protein-rich vegetarian option.

→ What are some good toppings for this bowl?

Consider adding avocado slices, olives, or a dollop of tahini for extra flavor.