8 Energizing Protein-Rich Quinoa Bowl Recipes

A one-bowl meal is so comforting at the end of a busy day. There’s just something so comforting about the unfussiness of tucking into a bowl. And a quinoa bowl is doubly good because it’s rich in protein, important for satiety as well as building muscle, regulating hormones, and more. Plus, you can meal-prep a big batch of quinoa over the weekend and simply reheat it all week.

These quinoa bowls are packed with veggies, so they look beautiful and appealing, and they’re loaded with good nutrition to keep you energized. There’s plenty of variety here, too, so you can find a bowl to match what you’re craving (and the ingredients you have in your fridge).

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1. Teriyaki Quinoa Bowl

A tasty stir-fry with tofu, snap peas, mushrooms, broccoli, and avocado makes for a flavorful quinoa bowl — especially with the homemade teriyaki sauce. It’s surprisingly simple to make, but you can use bottled to save a step if you prefer. This bowl has 23 grams of protein and 12 grams of fiber, so it will keep you full for hours.

Try this recipe from Running on Real Food.

2. Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl

This gluten-free, plant-based bowl is so colorful thanks to the array of veggies, which also provide tons of nutrients. The tahini drizzle brings it all together and adds some healthy fats, too. Sprinkle the bowl with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds to add a bit of crunch. 

Try this recipe from Feel Good Foodie.

3. Avocado Shrimp Quinoa Bowl

Spiced grilled shrimp is the star of this bowl, which also features avocado, black beans, corn, and pico de gallo. With 20 grams of protein, it’s a satisfying dish you’ll make on repeat. The cilantro vinaigrette would also be delicious on a salad.

Try this recipe from What’s Gaby Cooking.

4. Mango Black Bean Quinoa Bowl

What’s better than fresh mango? Fresh mango on top of a quinoa bowl, along with black beans, crisp red bell pepper, and avocado, all topped with a zesty honey lime chipotle dressing. Add some rotisserie chicken for even more protein, if you like.

Try this recipe from Ambitious Kitchen.

5. Salmon Quinoa Bowl

This bowl is rich in omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, which support heart and cognitive health and reduce inflammation. Along with the nutrient-rich veggies, the recipe includes a lemon-herb-tahini sauce that you’ll want to drizzle over everything.

Try this recipe from Walder Wellness.

6. Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

Jammy eggs, kale, avocado, pesto — this quinoa bowl makes for a hearty breakfast, or breakfast for dinner. If it’s going to be your morning meal, make the quinoa in advance so you can toss it together easily. Cook the quinoa with broth instead of water for more flavor.

Try this recipe from Eat with Clarity.

7. Spicy Southwestern Quinoa Bowl

If you love a rice bowl at your local taco place, this recipe is for you. With sweet potatoes, beans, a colorful mango-kale slaw, and a flavorful charred tomatillo vinaigrette, it’s nutrient-rich and full of flavors and textures. Top it with queso fresco, shredded cheddar, or pepper jack.

Try this recipe from Half Baked Harvest.

8. Greek Quinoa Salad Bowl

Take your favorite Greek salad, spoon it over protein-rich quinoa, and you’ve got this Mediterranean bowl. It has all the classic ingredients: tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, kalamata olives, feta cheese. All you need to dress it is a simple drizzle of olive oil and red wine vinegar — it’s a perfect quick lunch.

Try this recipe from Healthy Fitness Meals.

Read next: 9 Healthy Quinoa Recipes for Nutritious Meals in a Pinch