Grilled Veggie Quinoa Power Bowls

Featured in: Smoky Dishes

These nourishing grain bowls combine protein-rich quinoa with vegetables grilled until tender and lightly charred. The Mediterranean-inspired seasoning blend of smoked paprika and cumin adds subtle warmth, while the homemade tahini sauce brings everything together with its creamy, tangy profile. Customizable with seasonal vegetables and optional feta, each bowl offers a balanced mix of textures and flavors in under an hour.

Updated on Wed, 11 Feb 2026 20:01:24 GMT
Freshly grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions top fluffy quinoa in this vibrant Grilled Veggie and Quinoa Power Bowls with Tahini Drizzle recipe. Save
Freshly grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions top fluffy quinoa in this vibrant Grilled Veggie and Quinoa Power Bowls with Tahini Drizzle recipe. | pepperplume.com

Indulge in a nutrient-packed meal with these Grilled Veggie and Quinoa Power Bowls with Tahini Drizzle. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the smoky sweetness of charred bell peppers and red onions with the earthy, fluffy texture of perfectly cooked quinoa. It is a vibrant and wholesome choice for anyone seeking a nourishing lunch or dinner that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Freshly grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions top fluffy quinoa in this vibrant Grilled Veggie and Quinoa Power Bowls with Tahini Drizzle recipe. Save
Freshly grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions top fluffy quinoa in this vibrant Grilled Veggie and Quinoa Power Bowls with Tahini Drizzle recipe. | pepperplume.com

The creamy tahini drizzle, brightened with lemon and a hint of garlic, serves as the perfect finishing touch, pulling all the Mediterranean flavors together. Whether you are meal prepping for a busy week or serving a fresh family dinner, these bowls offer a satisfying and balanced eating experience.

Ingredients

  • Quinoa: 1 cup quinoa, 2 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Grilled Vegetables: 1 medium zucchini (sliced into 1/2-inch rounds), 1 red bell pepper (cut into strips), 1 yellow bell pepper (cut into strips), 1 red onion (cut into wedges), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Tahini Drizzle: 1/3 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, 1 small garlic clove (finely grated), 2–4 tablespoons warm water, 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Garnishes: 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped), 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional), 2 tablespoons toasted pumpkin seeds
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Instructions

Step 1
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water. Combine quinoa, water, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Step 2
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Step 3
In a large bowl, toss zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4
Grill the vegetables for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred. Remove from grill and set aside.
Step 5
For the tahini drizzle, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking until smooth and pourable.
Step 6
To assemble, divide quinoa among 4 bowls. Top with grilled vegetables. Drizzle generously with tahini sauce.
Step 7
Garnish with parsley, feta (if using), and pumpkin seeds. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure a smooth tahini sauce, use a whisk and add the warm water gradually until you reach your preferred consistency. For the best flavor, make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove its natural bitterness. This dish provides 420 calories per serving and contains sesame and dairy (if using feta).

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. You can easily adapt the bowl to the season by swapping vegetables for eggplant, asparagus, or mushrooms. If you prefer a bit of spice, add a sprinkle of chili flakes to the grilled vegetables.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these power bowls immediately while the vegetables are warm and charred. For an even heartier meal, pair the bowls with grilled pita or flatbread. An extra squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can provide a final touch of brightness to the dish.

A close-up of Mediterranean-inspired Grilled Veggie and Quinoa Power Bowls with Tahini Drizzle, featuring charred vegetables and creamy sauce. Save
A close-up of Mediterranean-inspired Grilled Veggie and Quinoa Power Bowls with Tahini Drizzle, featuring charred vegetables and creamy sauce. | pepperplume.com

With its combination of smoky grilled vegetables and zesty dressing, this Grilled Veggie and Quinoa Power Bowl is a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can create a truly satisfying meal. It is a reliable favorite for anyone looking to fuel their body with wholesome, delicious food.

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Recipe FAQ

Can I make these bowls ahead of time?

Absolutely. The quinoa and grilled vegetables store well in separate airtight containers for up to 4 days. Keep the tahini sauce in a jar and give it a quick stir before serving—add a splash of water if it thickens. Garnish with fresh herbs just before eating.

What vegetables work best for grilling?

Zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion are excellent choices that hold their shape well. You can also incorporate eggplant slices, asparagus spears, portobello mushrooms, or even corn. Cut vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking on the grill.

How do I prevent the tahini sauce from separating?

Whisk the tahini vigorously while gradually adding warm water, one tablespoon at a time. The mixture may temporarily seize and thicken—this is normal. Continue whisking and adding water until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. If refrigerated, bring to room temperature and stir again.

Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Certainly. Farro, bulgur, brown rice, or couscous make wonderful alternatives. Adjust cooking liquid and time according to package instructions. For quicker preparation, consider using pre-cooked grains or meal-prepped batches from earlier in the week.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

These bowls are ideal for meal prepping. Cook a large batch of quinoa and grill extra vegetables at the start of the week. Portion everything into containers, keeping the sauce separate. Simply reheat the grains and vegetables, then drizzle with sauce before enjoying.

How can I add more protein?

Consider adding chickpeas, grilled halloumi, shredded chicken, or pan-seared tofu. You could also mix hemp seeds or chopped walnuts into the quinoa while cooking. These additions complement the Mediterranean flavors while boosting protein content.

Grilled Veggie Quinoa Power Bowls

Fluffy quinoa meets smoky grilled vegetables in a wholesome bowl, finished with creamy tahini garlic drizzle and fresh garnishes.

Prep duration
20 min
Cook duration
25 min
Complete duration
45 min
Created by Isabella Flores


Complexity Easy

Heritage Mediterranean-inspired

Output 4 Portions

Diet considerations Meat-free, No gluten

Components

Quinoa

01 1 cup quinoa
02 2 cups water
03 1/2 teaspoon salt

Grilled Vegetables

01 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
02 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
03 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
04 1 red onion, cut into wedges
05 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
06 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
09 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
10 Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Tahini Drizzle

01 1/3 cup tahini
02 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
03 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
04 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
05 2 to 4 tablespoons warm water for thinning
06 1/4 teaspoon salt

Garnishes

01 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
02 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, optional
03 2 tablespoons toasted pumpkin seeds

Directions

Phase 01

Prepare Quinoa: Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water. Combine quinoa, water, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Phase 02

Heat Grill: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Phase 03

Season Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Phase 04

Grill Vegetables: Grill vegetables for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender with light char marks. Transfer to a plate.

Phase 05

Make Tahini Drizzle: Whisk tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, grated garlic, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add warm water one tablespoon at a time, whisking until smooth and pourable.

Phase 06

Assemble Bowls: Divide cooked quinoa evenly among 4 bowls. Top each with grilled vegetables and drizzle generously with tahini sauce.

Phase 07

Garnish and Serve: Top each bowl with parsley, feta cheese if desired, and toasted pumpkin seeds. Serve immediately.

Necessary tools

  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Chef's knife and cutting board
  • Tongs

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and seek professional health advice if you're uncertain.
  • Contains sesame from tahini
  • Contains dairy from feta cheese if used
  • Verify all pre-packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free
  • Those with tree nut or seed allergies should avoid tahini or use safe alternative

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 420
  • Fats: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Proteins: 13 g