The Honey Lemon Quinoa Bowl Could Be the Best Quinoa Dish You’ve Ever Tasted

Quinoa bowls have recently become widely popular. They are my go-to meal when I’m looking for something to fill me up, stay healthy and still be satisfied. Quinoa bowls are loaded with a variety of ingredients that give your body many health benefits.

This honey lemon quinoa bowl recipe is bursting with flavors that, when combined together, create the perfect amount of sweet and sour sure to satisfy all areas of your palate. The apples and pumpkin seeds add an extra burst of flavor and nutrition, as well as give this dish a nice crunch. See why this is one of my favorite go-to quinoa recipes.

Quinoa: The Super Grain

Quinoa is a a non-GMO and gluten free grain. Quinoa can prevent inflammation and is a great source of fibre, promoting a healthy digestion. This superfood is also rich in antioxidants and can help lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In addition, it is high in protein and is packed with essential amino acids.

Quinoa is considered to be an essential part of a vegetarian’s diet as it’s a great protein source for those who either don’t eat meat or are looking to cut back on their meat intake. Quinoa really is a super grain; it ranks above all other grains in terms of nutrition and health benefits, which is why it is the perfect dinner choice.

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are packed with magnesium, zinc and protein. They are also full of compounds that can remove free radicals from your system. Free radicals are created through the toxins that enter your body. The magnesium found in pumpkin seeds can benefit your heart by preventing cardiac arrest, heart disease and strokes. Zinc helps your body divide and grow new cells and has been linked to boosting mood and improving sleep quality.

Studies have actually shown that pumpkin seeds can help prevent diabetes because it lowers your insulin levels. There are a number of different ways to add pumpkin seeds to your diet. They make a great snack on their own or can be added to salad.

This recipe is shared with permission from our friends at drfranklipman.com.

Fresh and Seasonal Honey Lemon Quinoa Bowl Recipe

Serves: 4

Prep time : 15 mins

Cook time : 15- 20 mins

Ingredients:

½ cup quinoa
2 medium summer squash or zucchini, thinly sliced or diced
1 cup organic mixed salad greens (such as Earthbound Farm)

1/3 cup peeled and thinly sliced apple
2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
2 Tbsp. pumpkin seeds

Juice of 2 medium lemons
½ tsp. honey
2-3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

Sea salt and pepper, to taste
Pinch crushed red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions:

Cook quinoa according to package directions. Remove from heat; fluff with a fork, cover and set aside.
Meanwhile, steam squash in a steamer basket over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until tender. Add to quinoa mixture and toss to combine. Add salad greens, apple, parsley and pumpkin seeds; toss again.
In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice, honey, olive oil, sea salt and pepper. Drizzle over quinoa mixture and toss to combine. Season to taste and serve.