Boost Muscle Growth with This High-Protein Bodybuilding Recipe: Roasted Veggie Quinoa
Bodybuilding’s a grind—you’re crushing it in the gym, but it’s the food that turns those reps into gains. Lunch or a post-workout meal needs to pack protein and carbs to keep you growing without weighing you down. That’s where Roasted Veggie Quinoa comes in—quinoa tossed with roasted vegetables and a sprinkle of feta. This isn’t just a veggie bowl; it’s a muscle-building powerhouse that’s hearty, flavorful, and loaded with what you need. Whether you’re powering through the day or refueling after a lift, this recipe’s a clean win with a savory edge. Let’s roast up why it’s a bodybuilder’s go-to and how to whip it up.
Macro-Friendly Recipe for Bodybuilders: Roasted Veggie Quinoa
Here’s the rundown on this nutrient-packed bowl:
- Recipe Name: Roasted Veggie Quinoa with Feta
- Servings: 1 serving
- Macro Breakdown (approximate per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fats: 18g
These macros are a lifter’s gold—18 grams of protein to aid muscle repair, 55 grams of carbs for energy, and 18 grams of fats for balance. Perfect for maintaining or bulking; trim it back for cutting if you’re shredding.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the quinoa, veggies, and feta:
- 1/2 cup dry quinoa (makes about 1.5 cups cooked)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion, chopped)
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley
These are simple ingredients that hit hard—fresh, wholesome, and ready to fuel your grind.
Instructions
Ready to roast and toss? This dish is a quick fix—here’s how:
- Cook the quinoa: Rinse 1/2 cup dry quinoa under cold water. In a small pot, bring 1 cup water to a boil, add the quinoa, and reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes until fluffy and the water’s gone. Set aside.
- Roast the veggies: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss 1 cup chopped mixed vegetables with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Spread them out evenly and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and slightly charred.
- Combine it all: In a large bowl, mix 1.5 cups cooked quinoa with the roasted vegetables. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons crumbled feta over the top while it’s still warm—let it melt in a little.
- Finish it off: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parsley if you’re into that fresh pop. Toss everything together to blend the flavors.
- Serve and dig in: Eat it warm or cold—works either way for a hearty refuel!
This takes about 30 minutes—quick enough for a lunch break or a post-gym feast. Want more? Add chickpeas or double the veggies.
How This Recipe Supports Muscle Growth and Recovery
Why’s this quinoa bowl a bodybuilding win? Let’s break it down:
- Protein Power: The 18 grams of protein from quinoa and feta aid muscle repair. Quinoa’s a complete plant-based protein, and feta adds a boost of casein—perfect for recovery when paired with your daily protein intake.
- Carb Fuel: The 55 grams of carbs from quinoa and veggies keep you powered. These complex carbs release energy slowly, fueling your workouts and topping off glycogen stores so you’re not running on empty.
- Healthy Fats: With 18 grams of fats from olive oil and feta, this supports hormone production—like testosterone—that’s key for muscle growth. These fats also keep it rich and satisfying.
- Nutrient Bonus: Veggies like zucchini and peppers bring vitamins A and C for recovery and immunity. Quinoa packs magnesium and fiber for muscle and gut health, and feta adds calcium for strong bones under heavy loads.
This bowl’s a triple threat—protein, carbs, and fats teaming up to support muscle growth, speed recovery, and keep you strong. It’s a hearty meal with big benefits.
Conclusion
The Roasted Veggie Quinoa with feta is bodybuilding fuel that’s veggie-forward—18 grams of protein, 55 grams of carbs, and 18 grams of fats in a hearty, flavorful package. With quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a feta finish, it’s a meal that supports muscle recovery and keeps you energized. Easy to make and perfect for meal prep, it’s a no-brainer for any lifter’s routine.
So, crank up that oven and toss some gains. Your muscles will thank you, and your taste buds won’t complain either. Got a fave veggie swap or a spicy twist? Share it in the comments or tag us online—I’m pumped to see how you’re quinoa-ing it up!