Description
This Beef Quinoa Power Bowl is a nutritious and hearty meal combining protein-packed ground beef with fiber-rich quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a tangy, flavorful dressing. Perfect for a balanced lunch or dinner, this bowl offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that are both satisfying and energizing.
Ingredients
For the Beef Quinoa Power Bowl
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or low-sodium beef broth
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or beef broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Prepare the beef: While the quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped red onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Assemble the power bowl: Divide the cooked quinoa evenly into serving bowls. Top with ground beef, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, shredded carrots, baby spinach, and avocado slices.
- Drizzle and serve: Pour the prepared dressing over each bowl just before serving. Toss lightly if desired to combine flavors and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and add roasted chickpeas or tofu.
- Quinoa can be cooked in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adjust seasoning and spices based on your taste preferences.
- Adding a handful of nuts or seeds like pumpkin seeds can enhance texture and nutrition.
