5 Easy Low Calorie Quinoa Lunch Ideas: Fun, Fast and Fabulous!
Hey there weight loss warriors! In this post we’ve got 5 easy, low calorie quinoa lunch ideas that are fast, simple and delicious! Many people have said they’d like to try quinoa, but they’re just not sure how to cook it, or make it exciting. Well, these exciting, low calorie quinoa side dishes, and easy low calorie quinoa lunch ideas are sure to help get your creative juices flowing. Let’s dig in!
Healthy eating is a form of self-respect. Nourish your body, and it will thank you.
– Anonymous
1. Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas & Mediterranean Vegetables
- Cooked quinoa tossed with chickpeas, diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Dress with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano and parsley. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing and satisfying lunch.
2. Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Bell Pepper
- Halve bell peppers & remove seeds. Stuff with a mixture of cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onions, and spices like cumin and chili powder.
- Top with a sprinkle of shredded cheese (optional). Bake until peppers are tender & filling is heated through. Garnish with cilantro and a dollop of Greek yogurt or salsa.
Fascinating Food Fact!
Did you know? The tiny Quinoa seed is a nutritional powerhouse! Quinoa packs more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than most grains, plus it’s a protein and fiber superstar. Did we mention it’s kind on your blood sugar too?
Spice Up Your Comments!
How do you love your quinoa? Savory bowls,
fluffy porridge, or a surprise ingredient in baked
goods? Share your favorite quinoa creations!
3. Quinoa and Avocado Wrap
- Spread cooked quinoa on a whole wheat or spinach tortilla. Top with sliced avocado, spinach, shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, & drizzle of balsamic glaze or hummus.
- Roll up the tortilla tightly and slice into bite-sized pieces for a portable and nutritious lunch option.
4. Quinoa and Pesto Zucchini Boats
- Cut zucchini in half lengthwise. Scoop out seeds to create hollow boat shape. Fill the zucchini halves with cooked quinoa mixed with pesto sauce and cherry tomatoes.
- Bake in the oven until zucchini is tender and filling is heated through, then garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving
5. Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-Fry
- Cook quinoa per package instructions & set aside. Stir-fry vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas, and mushrooms in a skillet with a dash of sesame oil or soy sauce.
- Add cooked quinoa to the skillet and toss with veggies ’til heated through. Sprinkle with sesame seeds & chopped green onions for crunch.
Important Takeaways– Low-Calorie Lunch Ideas
There you have it, weight loss warriors. Five exciting, yet very easy low calorie quinoa lunch ideas. Feel free to add 4 oz. of grilled chicken breast, ground turkey, or other lean protein to any of these lunch options. It’ll still be an awesomely delicious, easy, low calorie quinoa lunch.
With this quasi-grain superfood, you just can’t go wrong. Check out this article to learn more about the many health benefits of quinoa. Several clinical studies have demonstrated that besides being low in calories and high in protein, eating quinoa exerts significant, positive effects on metabolic, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal health.
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Until next time… Stay Fabulous!
Important Note: The content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Always consult a healthcare professional before making changes to your diet or taking new supplements.
