Mediterranean Taco Rice Bowl
This Mediterranean-inspired twist on a taco rice bowl features lemon-herb rice, seasoned ground chicken or chickpeas, creamy hummus, tangy yogurt-tahini sauce, and fresh veggies like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and olives. It’s colorful, nutrient-packed, and full of flavor — like a gyro and a burrito bowl had a delicious baby.
⏱️ Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Rice:
1 cup cooked rice (brown, jasmine, or basmati)
1 tbsp olive oil
Zest and juice of ½ lemon
1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
Pinch of salt
For the Protein (choose one):
Option A – Ground Chicken or Turkey:
½ lb (225g) ground chicken or turkey
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp oregano
Salt & pepper
Option B – Mediterranean-Spiced Chickpeas (vegetarian):
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp paprika
Pinch of turmeric or chili flakes
Salt to taste
Fresh Bowl Add-ins:
½ cup diced cucumber
½ cup halved cherry tomatoes
¼ cup diced red onion or pickled onions
2 tbsp sliced olives (Kalamata or green)
½ avocado, sliced (optional)
2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Yogurt-Tahini Sauce:
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced or grated
Salt & water to thin
Optional:
Hummus (as a base or dollop)
Pita chips or crispy chickpeas for crunch
Fresh mint or parsley to finish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Stir lemon zest, juice, olive oil, and herbs into the warm cooked rice. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Protein:
For meat: Sauté ground chicken in olive oil with spices until cooked through and browned (about 6–8 minutes).
For chickpeas: Sauté chickpeas in a skillet with oil and spices until crispy and golden (about 8–10 minutes).
3. Make the Sauce:
Whisk together yogurt, tahini, lemon, garlic, and a splash of water until creamy and drizzle-ready.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
In each bowl, layer:
1. A bed of lemon-herb rice
2. Your chosen protein
3. Fresh veggies (cucumber, tomatoes, onion, olives, avocado)
4. Drizzle with yogurt-tahini sauce
5. Add hummus, feta, herbs, and optional crunch elements
Tips & Variations:
Add heat: Use spicy harissa or chili flakes in the protein or drizzle sriracha over the top.
Add greens: Serve over a base of arugula or spinach for extra freshness.
Wrap it up: Use these fillings in a pita or flatbread to make a Mediterranean taco-wrap!
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ:
Q: Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! Store all components separately and assemble fresh.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
Yes — just make sure your tahini and feta are certified GF.
Q: Can I use quinoa or couscous instead of rice?
Absolutely — both work great!
Nutrition information
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 40g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 8g