The Spinach Pesto Quinoa Bowl is a vibrant, wholesome dish that brings together nutrient-packed ingredients in a flavorful, feel-good way. This plant-powered meal is perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed meal prep Sundays. It’s colorful, filling, and totally customizable.
At the heart of the bowl is quinoa—fluffy, protein-rich, and a great blank canvas for the bold, herby spinach pesto. Unlike traditional pesto, this version uses spinach for a milder, earthier flavor and a boost of iron and fiber. The result is a rich green sauce that’s fresh, garlicky, and absolutely addictive.
This recipe is ideal for vegetarians and can easily be made vegan. It’s dairy-free if you omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and the entire bowl is naturally gluten-free. Clean, wholesome eating without sacrificing taste.
You can load up your bowl with roasted or raw veggies, chickpeas or beans, nuts or seeds—whatever suits your taste or what you have on hand. Think of it as a flexible, fridge-friendly recipe that lets you use up extra produce while eating well.
It’s also a great way to sneak more greens into your diet. Spinach pesto is a sneaky but delicious way to up your veggie intake, especially for kids or picky eaters. Even better? The pesto can be used in other meals like pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.
You can make everything ahead of time and assemble your bowls throughout the week. Just keep the components in separate containers and toss them together when you’re ready to eat. It’s perfect for on-the-go lunches or easy weeknight dinners.
The texture variety is part of the appeal—fluffy quinoa, creamy pesto, crisp veggies, crunchy seeds, and maybe a sprinkle of cheese or avocado. Every bite has contrast and flavor.
Whether you’re a seasoned meal prepper or just looking for something quick and nourishing, this bowl is a great place to start. The recipe is simple, the ingredients are fresh, and the flavors are big.
A food processor makes the pesto a breeze, but you can also blend it in a high-powered blender. It comes together in minutes and stores well in the fridge for several days.
This is the kind of meal that makes you feel good after eating it—satisfied but light, full of nutrients and natural energy. It’s great after a workout, for a clean lunch, or to serve to guests as a modern, healthy meal.
Add your own twist with spicy roasted chickpeas, grilled tofu, feta cheese, or a poached egg. It’s endlessly adaptable to your mood and pantry.
One of the best parts? It’s just as delicious cold as it is warm, making it perfect for make-ahead meals or picnics. You can even serve it in a mason jar for a portable lunch.
Spinach Pesto Quinoa Bowls are colorful, crave-worthy, and endlessly nourishing—a great addition to your healthy recipe rotation.
Servings: 4
Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Quinoa Bowl:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or chopped almonds
- Optional: crumbled feta or grilled tofu
For the Spinach Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup nuts (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds)
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tbsp nutritional yeast or Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Cook quinoa in water or broth according to package instructions. Fluff and let cool.
- While quinoa cooks, prepare the pesto: add spinach, nuts, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to a food processor. Blend until smooth. Stir in cheese or nutritional yeast, if using.
- Assemble bowls with a base of quinoa and toppings of tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, avocado, and seeds.
- Drizzle with spinach pesto and sprinkle with feta or tofu if desired.
- Serve immediately or store in containers for meal prep.
Tips:
- Make extra pesto—it keeps well and is super versatile.
- Swap in any veggies or toppings you like.
- Add grilled protein for a heartier meal.
- Great hot or cold!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Fresh, flavorful, and healthy.
- Meal-prep friendly and quick to make.
- Vegan and gluten-free adaptable.
- A great way to eat more greens!
Summary: Spinach Pesto Quinoa Bowls are fresh, healthy, and endlessly customizable. Featuring fluffy quinoa, crisp veggies, and herby spinach pesto, they’re perfect for clean eating and easy meal prep.
