Mediterranean Bibimbap

Ingredients

While the original Bibimbap is a Korean rice bowl topped with various vegetables, meat, and a spicy sauce, our Mediterranean adaptation incorporates Mediterranean ingredients and flavors. We replace the traditional Korean ingredients with Mediterranean staples such as olives, feta cheese, roasted vegetables, and a tangy lemon-herb dressing. This fusion creates a unique and refreshing twist on the classic Bibimbap. We alse have the original recipe for Bibimbap, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) cooked quinoa 2 cups (470ml) cooked quinoa
• 1 cup (240ml) cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup (240ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup (240ml) cucumber, diced 1 cup (240ml) cucumber, diced
• 1 cup (240ml) roasted red bell peppers, sliced 1 cup (240ml) roasted red bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup (240ml) Kalamata olives, pitted and halved 1 cup (240ml) Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1 cup (240ml) feta cheese, crumbled 1 cup (240ml) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh mint, chopped 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, roasted red bell peppers, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and mint.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. 4.
   Adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. 5.
   Serve the Mediterranean Bibimbap in bowls, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Quinoa — Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness.
• Feta cheese — Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Lemon juice — Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for a vibrant citrus flavor.
• Roasted red bell peppers — You can roast your own bell peppers or use store-bought roasted red bell peppers for convenience.
• Kalamata olives — Ensure the olives are pitted before halving them.

Tips & Tricks

• Feel free to add other Mediterranean ingredients such as artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted eggplant for additional flavor and texture.
• For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the Mediterranean Bibimbap.
• Customize the dressing by adding garlic, oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Serve the Mediterranean Bibimbap chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing meal.
• Make a larger batch of the lemon-herb dressing and keep it refrigerated for up to a week to use in other Mediterranean dishes.

Serving advice

Serve the Mediterranean Bibimbap as a light lunch or dinner. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side dish or salad for a more substantial meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, arrange the colorful ingredients in separate sections on top of the quinoa base. This will create an appealing visual contrast and make the dish even more inviting.