Sundays are for slow mornings, good food, and nourishing your body. This Vegetable Quinoa Bowl with Lemon Yogurt Dressing is light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients — perfect for a healthy Sunday lunch or dinner. It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and adaptable to any region’s ingredients.Vegetable Quinoa Bowl with Lemon Yogurt Dressing

Ingredients

For the Bowl:

  • 1 cup quinoa (rinsed well)
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
  • 1 small zucchini, chopped
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (boiled)
  • 1/2 cup chickpeas (boiled or canned)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (mint, parsley, or coriander) for garnish

For the Lemon Yogurt Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 small garlic clove, crushed
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions (Step-by-Step)

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa well. Boil 2 cups of water or vegetable broth, add quinoa, cover, and cook on low for 15 minutes until fluffy. Set aside to cool.

2. Cook the Vegetables: In a pan, heat olive oil. Add carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers. Sauté until tender yet slightly crisp. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.

4. Assemble the Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, corn, and chickpeas. Toss gently.

5. Serve: Drizzle the lemon yogurt dressing over the mixture, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy!

Optional Add-ons

  • Add avocado slices for healthy fats.
  • Sprinkle roasted seeds or nuts for extra crunch.
  • Top with grilled tofu or paneer for more protein.

Why It’s Perfect for Sunday

This meal strikes the perfect balance — light but filling, colorful but simple, and full of flavor. It helps your body reset after a long week and energizes you for the one ahead. It’s also easy to prep in batches for meal planning!