Pizza Protein Bowl Recipe
This Pizza Protein Bowl combines wholesome quinoa with sautéed vegetables, tangy diced tomatoes, gooey melted mozzarella, and classic pepperoni for a satisfying and protein-packed meal. It’s quick to make, versatile with ingredient substitutions, and perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch bowl that captures all the flavors of a pizza in a healthy bowl format.
- Author: liam
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6–8 slices pepperoni
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Sauté the Base Ingredients: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced green bell peppers and sliced mushrooms, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they soften. Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil to enhance the flavor.
- Mix in Quinoa and Tomatoes: Stir in the cooked quinoa and the drained canned diced tomatoes. Mix well and let the mixture heat through for a couple of minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the Bowl: Transfer the quinoa and vegetable mixture to a bowl. Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top to prepare for melting.
- Add the Pepperoni: Arrange the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese layer, distributing them as you like for maximum flavor.
- Melt the Cheese: Place the bowl under the broiler or in a toaster oven until the cheese melts and bubbles, which takes about 3-5 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bowl from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the melty cheese for a fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty Pizza Protein Bowl.
Notes
- You can substitute quinoa with brown rice, farro, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the pepperoni and use plant-based cheese or add extra vegetables or beans.
- Turkey pepperoni or cooked chicken can be used instead of traditional pepperoni for a leaner protein option.
- If you don’t have a broiler, melt the cheese by microwaving in 30-second intervals until bubbly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or skillet with a splash of water to prevent drying.
Keywords: Pizza Protein Bowl, Quinoa Bowl, Healthy Dinner, Quick Dinner, Easy Protein Bowl, Mozzarella, Pepperoni, Sautéed Vegetables