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High-Protein High-Fiber Power Meal

A nutritious and flavorful power meal packed with quinoa, chickpeas, and colorful veggies, drizzled with a zesty dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 cup (198g) cooked lentils (brown or green)
  • 1 can (15 oz/425g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups (60g) baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Handful of fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water using a colander.
  2. Combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan.
  3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and let the quinoa sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. If using dried lentils, rinse and cook until tender; if using canned, rinse and drain.
  7. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  8. Combine quinoa, lentils, chickpeas, spinach, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
  9. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
  10. Fold in diced avocado just before serving, if using. Enjoy warm or chilled!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein, high fiber, vegan meal, quinoa, chickpeas, nutritious