My Mediterranean grain bowl is inspired by my favourite Panera recipe but leveled up with a few unique swaps. We've got turkey meatballs, cucumber salad, and a tahini yogurt sauce to drizzle on top
Whenever I'm out and need a bite, I love picking up the Panera Mediterranean bowl for a quick meal option. In my opinion it's one of the best options on the menu and pretty healthy as well, especially when it comes to ordering out!
Unfortunately, there aren't that many Panera locations in Toronto so I don't have the opportunity to go often. That's why I took matters into my own hands to develop a Panera copycat recipe for a Mediterranean grain bowl.
Inspired by the flavors of Greece I love, this is an easy weeknight meal full of fresh flavors . It's just like Panera, but leveled up and with a Nourished twist.
Why This Dietitian Loves This Recipe
You NEED to try these Mediterranean grain bowls and here's why.
- Impress a crowd. These bowls not only look visually stunning to serve, but there are lots of complimentary flavors that make for a satisfying dining experience. You'll rack up the compliments from all your guests.
- Meal prep friendly. Alternatively, these bowls also work well for a meal prep. Each component stores well in the fridge throughout the week.
- Nutritionally balanced. I also call these Mediterranean "power bowls" because thanks to the protein, carbs and healthy fats, it truly powers me through the way. Healthy food does NOT have to be boring!
- Highlight seasonal produce and flavours. It's summer right now and I've been loving using seasonal veggies like tomatoes and cucumbers in my recipes. Food always tastes 10x better when it's picked in it's peak season.
Ingredients
To view full ingredients and instructions for all components, please view the recipe cards below.
Sauce options:
For serving:
- Kalamata olives
- Pita or flatbread
- Feta cheese
- Grain of choice
Instructions
First prepare the Greek turkey meatballs. You will likely need only half of this recipe so you can use the rest for lunches throughout the week!
Cook grain according to package instructions.
Prepare the Mediterranean cucumber salad by combining all ingredients in a large bowl and set aside.
Prior to serving, prepare the tahini yogurt sauce or another dressing of choice and set aside.
To serve, add a base of grains to each bowl, top with Greek meatballs, Mediterranean salad, sauce of choice and olive and pita if using. Sprinkle with additional feta and enjoy!
Substitution and Variations
To make gluten-free: Use a grain of choice that is certified gluten-free (rice, quinoa, etc.).
To make dairy-free: Use a dairy-free feta cheese and sauce.
To make vegan: Use tofu for the protein of choice, choose a dairy-free feta cheese and dairy-free sauce.
To make nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free. Make sure all individual ingredients are also nut-free.
For more specific ingredient swaps for each component, please see the full blog posts for each recipe (linked above).
- Alternatives to the Greek meatballs:
- 1 lb of cooked chicken breast, sliced
- Roasted tofu
- Roasted chickpeas
- Steak or souvlaki
- Alternatives to the Mediterranean salad: slice vegetables of choice and allow individuals to customize their bowls how they like (I like using cucumber, red pepper, red onion, and tomatoes).
Equipment
Storage
These Mediterranean grain bowls are great for meal prep. To maintain the freshness, I recommend storing all components in separate containers in the fridge and assembling as required. Ingredients will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
Top Tip
Allow everyone to make their own bowls! This way they can add what they want and it makes the meal more fun and interesting. I love inviting my friends over as well for a "build your own Mediterranean power bowl" night.
To make this a quick meal, prep the meatballs ahead of time and store cooked in the freezer, defrosting when you need them.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's similar but with a couple key differences: cucumber salad instead of arugula, turkey meatballs instead of chicken, etc. I'd say the overall flavour profile is the same, but with some additional add-ins (like my tahini yogurt sauce and turkey feta meatballs) that make it even better.
Yes of course! The meatballs are such an easy recipe to make ahead of time and store in the freezer until you need them. You can also prep your grain and sauce ahead of time as well.
If you don't want to make another bowl with the leftovers get creative and turn them into a wrap! Adding everything into either a pita or tortilla is a great option for a filling lunch.
More Grain Bowl Recipes
Want more power bowls? Try these next!
PS. I love seeing my recipes in action! If you decide to make this Panera Mediterranean grain bowl, don't forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram- @nourishedbynic or leave a comment and rating below letting me know how you liked it!
📖 Recipe
Mediterranean Grain Bowl
Ingredients
Grain
- 1 cup of grain of choice uncooked (quinoa, bulgar, couscous, orzo, rice)
Greek Turkey Meatballs
- Batch of Greek turkey meatballs see notes for substitutions
Mediterranean Cucumber Salad
- 1 batch Mediterranean cucumber salad see notes for substitutions
Sauce (optional)
- Tahini yogurt sauce
- Loaded garlic hummus or store bought
- Tzatziki store bought
For serving:
- Kalamata olives pitted
- Pita or flatbread
- Feta cheese crumbled
Instructions
- First prepare the Greek meatballs by following this recipe for my easy 30 minute Greek turkey meatballs. You will likely need only half of this recipe so you can use the rest for lunches throughout the week!
- Cook grain according to package instructions.
- Prepare the Mediterranean cucumber salad by combining all ingredients in a large bowl and set aside.
- Prior to serving, prepare your sauce of choice ( I like this tahini yogurt sauce) and set aside.
- To serve, add a base of grains to each bowl, top with Greek meatball, Mediterranean salad, sauce of choice and olive and pita if using sprinkle with additional feta and enjoy!
Notes
- Alternatives to the Greek meatballs:
- 1 lb of cooked chicken breast, sliced
- Roasted tofu
- Roasted chickpeas
- Steak or souvlaki
- Alternatives to the Mediterranean salad: slice vegetables of choice and allow individuals to customize their bowls how they like (I like using cucumber, red pepper, red onion, and tomatoes).
Lauren says
I truly could eat this every week and not get bored of it. Great flavours, super nourishing and filling!!