Description
The Lentil Feta Power Bowl is a nourishing, satisfying, and customizable meal that checks all the boxes for a healthy, balanced dish. Packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, it is a complete meal on its own. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking for a wholesome lunch or dinner, this recipe offers the flexibility to suit your preferences
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your very own Lentil Feta Power Bowl:
- 1 cup dry green or brown lentils (or 2.5 cups cooked lentils)
- 4 cups water (or vegetable broth, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tahini
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (for dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Avocado slices
- Roasted sweet potato cubes
- Spinach or mixed greens
Instructions
1. Cook the Lentils
Start by rinsing the dry lentils under cold water to remove any debris. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and allow the lentils to simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender but still firm. Be careful not to overcook the lentils, as they should not become mushy. Drain any excess liquid and set the cooked lentils aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Bowl Ingredients
While the lentils are cooking, prepare the fresh ingredients for the bowl. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Crumble the feta cheese and chop the parsley for garnish. If you are using olives, slice them as well. This step will ensure that everything is ready to assemble once the lentils are done.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. If the dressing is too thick for your liking, you can add a little water to adjust the consistency. The dressing should be smooth and creamy, with a balanced flavor of lemony tang and a hint of nuttiness from the tahini.
4. Assemble the Power Bowl
Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to assemble the Lentil Feta Power Bowl. Start by layering the cooked lentils at the bottom of a large bowl. Then, add the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and olives (if using). Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley for a burst of flavor and color. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the top to tie everything together.
5. Add Optional Toppings
For extra texture and flavor, consider adding some optional toppings to your bowl. Avocado slices can provide a creamy richness, while roasted sweet potato cubes add a hint of sweetness and a warm element. If you prefer a more leafy option, spinach or mixed greens will complement the dish beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Lentil Feta Power Bowl is now ready to be served. It’s a perfect dish for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. If you have any leftovers, the bowl can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld together, making it an even more delicious option for the next day!
Notes
Feel free to customize your power bowl by adding your favorite toppings or proteins. Try adding grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a drizzle of tahini for extra flavor. You can also swap the feta for a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Experiment with different greens like spinach or arugula, and don’t forget to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cook, Chop, Mix, Toss, Serve.
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Lentil Feta Power Bowl