PILA-Inspired Layered Lentil and Quinoa Power Bowl

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-30 · Updated 2026-05-30

A nutritious layered power bowl combining protein-rich lentils and quinoa with fresh vegetables and a tangy tahini dressing. This mediterranean-inspired healthy bowls (high protein, vegetarian) ready in about 45 minutes pairs dry green lentils, dry quinoa, divided water for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup dry green lentils
• 3/4 cup dry quinoa
• 3 cups divided water
• 1/2 medium, diced cucumber
• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1 medium, shredded carrot
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 3 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 small clove, minced garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp divided salt
• 1/2 tsp divided black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 3/4 cup dry green lentils under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils with 1 1/2 cups water and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water.
2. Step 2: Meanwhile, rinse 3/4 cup dry quinoa under cold water. In another saucepan, combine quinoa with 1 1/2 cups water and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 minced small garlic clove, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, layer the cooked lentils, cooked quinoa, 1/2 diced cucumber, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1 shredded medium carrot, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley.
5. Step 5: Drizzle the tahini dressing evenly over the bowl and gently toss all ingredients to combine and coat with dressing.
6. Step 6: Adjust seasoning with remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and black pepper if needed. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for flavors to meld.