Mediterranean Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese & Quinoa Burrito Bowls
Creamy, Hearty & Power-Fueled – A Wholesome Twist on the Burrito Bowl
These Mediterranean Cottage Cheese & Quinoa Burrito Bowls are a flavorful and satisfying fusion of high-protein ingredients and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Packed with creamy cottage cheese, fluffy quinoa, seasoned vegetables, and fresh herbs, this bowl is designed to fuel your body and delight your taste buds. Perfect for meal prep, lunch, or a balanced dinner—vegetarian and gluten-free friendly!
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4 bowls
Ingredients
For the Base:
1 cup dry quinoa
2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
½ tsp salt
For the Veggie Mix:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium zucchini, chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
½ cup red onion, sliced
1 tsp oregano
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Bowl:
1½ cups low-fat cottage cheese
1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1 medium cucumber, chopped
½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
Cook the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa, water (or broth), and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Bowls
Divide cooked quinoa between 4 bowls. Top with a scoop of cottage cheese, sautéed vegetables, chickpeas, cucumber, olives, and feta (if using).
Finish & Serve
Drizzle lemon juice over each bowl and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately or refrigerate for meal prep (good for up to 3 days).
Tips
Rinse quinoa well: This removes bitterness caused by natural saponins on the grain’s surface.
Use warm or cold components: These bowls are delicious either way. Warm veggies + cold cottage cheese = extra texture contrast!
Season each layer lightly: A dash of salt or a squeeze of lemon at each step enhances flavor throughout the bowl.
Meal prep tip: Keep wet ingredients like cucumbers and lemon separate until serving to avoid sogginess.
Variations
Spicy twist: Add a dash of harissa, chili flakes, or cayenne to the veggie mix or drizzle with a spicy yogurt sauce.
Add greens: Toss in baby spinach, arugula, or chopped romaine for a leafy base.
Switch grains: Use brown rice, farro, couscous, or even lentils in place of quinoa.
Roasted veggies option: Roast the zucchini, tomatoes, and peppers at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes for deeper caramelized flavor.
Add crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for texture.
Make it vegan: Use dairy-free cottage cheese and omit the feta, or replace with tahini or hummus.
Make it portable: Layer everything into mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These bowls are perfect for meal prep. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep lemon juice and parsley separate until serving for best freshness.
Q: Can I use another grain instead of quinoa?
A: Yes! Try farro, bulgur, brown rice, or even couscous for a delicious twist. Just keep in mind the cook times and textures will vary.
Q: I don’t like cottage cheese—any alternatives?
A: You can substitute Greek yogurt, labneh, or even hummus for a creamy, tangy protein boost.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, just make sure your broth and any add-ins (like store-bought feta or olives) are certified gluten-free.
Q: Can I add meat or seafood?
A: Definitely! Add grilled chicken, tuna, or shrimp to make it a higher-protein meal.
Nutrition Facts
(Per Serving – Approximate)
Based on 1 of 4 servings with feta and olive oil included:
Calories: ~390
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 7g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: ~580mg
Calcium: ~20% DV
Iron: ~15% DV
Excellent source of protein, calcium, and fiber. Balanced with healthy fats and slow-digesting carbs.
Final Conclusion
The Mediterranean Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese & Quinoa Burrito Bowls are a powerhouse of nutrition, flavor, and simplicity. Whether you’re aiming to increase your protein intake, eat more plant-forward meals, or enjoy a fuss-free weeknight dinner, this bowl delivers. Creamy cottage cheese and fiber-rich quinoa make the perfect foundation for vibrant roasted vegetables and zesty Mediterranean toppings. It’s a fresh, fulfilling, and energizing dish that can be customized endlessly to suit your cravings or dietary needs.