Copycat Panera Mediterranean Bowl
Serves 1
Ingredients for the bowl:
1/2 cup white quinoa*
1/2 cup brown rice
1/2 cup - 1 cup of grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced in half**
1 small cucumber, diced***
1/4 cup kalamata olives****
2 TBSP hummus*****
Ingredients for the tahini dressing:
1 TBSP tahini
lemon juice to taste
a pinch of salt
a pinch of pepper
a pinch of garlic powder******
water to desired thickness
Instructions for bowl:
Cook quinoa and brown rice per instructions on the package. In a medium sized bowl, stir the quinoa, brown rice and veggies to combine. Top with hummus and tahini sauce. Add a scoop of Greek yogurt if you are not dairy free.
Instructions for tahini sauce:
Whisk together the tahini, lemon, salt, pepper and garlic powder (if using). Add water gradually to thin out the mixture for drizzling over the Mediterranean bowl.
* I like to use white quinoa so the look of the meal is aesthetically pleasing. You can use multi-colored if you prefer.
** When I make this, I add as many tomatoes as looks good. Add as many or as little as you want.
*** I use mini cucumbers. If you are using a large cucumber cut the pieces smaller.
**** Honestly, when I make this it's all about what looks good and what I am in the mood for. If you love kalamata olives and want more, add more, if you prefer less then don't add as much. It's about what feels right for you.
***** I add 2 TBSP as that is the recommended serving size on the package. The brand I use is ITHACA because it has no preservatives and no soy.
****** This is optional. I love garlic so I think it's great for taste!
This is an original recipe inspired by Panera's Mediterranean grain bowl.