Harissa Chicken Quinoa Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Feta

Make weeknight dinners easy with these Harissa Chicken Quinoa Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Feta. Roasted sweet potatoes, juicy harissa chicken, fluffy quinoa, spinach, and feta come together in a colorful, flavor-packed meal that starts with a batch of weekend-cooked quinoa.

Harissa Chicken Quinoa Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Feta

Weekend Prep. Weeknight Easy. It's become one of my favorite ways to make fresh, homemade dinners feel completely doable during a busy week. Instead of starting from scratch every night, I spend a little time on the weekend cooking a batch of quinoa that becomes the foundation for several different meals in the days ahead.

These Harissa Chicken Quinoa Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Feta are one of the first recipes I reach for. Roasted sweet potatoes add natural sweetness, the harissa yogurt coating keeps the chicken tender with just the right amount of warmth, and fresh spinach and crumbled feta bring everything together over fluffy quinoa. A quick lemon-harissa vinaigrette ties the bowl together with bright, vibrant flavor that's satisfying without feeling heavy.

I love that this bowl feels colorful, fresh, and wholesome while still coming together quickly on a weeknight. Sometimes the simplest bit of weekend planning is all it takes to make dinner feel a little less rushed and a whole lot more enjoyable.

-- Ingredients

For the Quinoa Bowl

• Quinoa - Cooked quinoa is the hearty foundation of this bowl. Preparing it over the weekend makes this recipe come together quickly on busy weeknights.

• Sweet Potato - Roasting brings out its natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the warmth of the harissa.

• Baby Spinach - Wilts slightly from the warm quinoa while adding freshness and color.

• Feta Cheese - Adds creamy, salty bites that balance the sweet potatoes and spicy harissa.

For the Harissa Chicken

• Greek Yogurt - Keeps the chicken tender while helping the harissa cling during roasting.

• Harissa - Adds smoky warmth without overwhelming heat. Adjust to your preferred spice level.  Note:  You can use either harissa seasoning or harissa paste in this recipe. Adjust to your heat level. 

• Lemon Juice - Brightens both the marinade and the vinaigrette.

• Chicken Breasts - Boneless, skinless breasts roast quickly and stay juicy thanks to the yogurt marinade.

For the Lemon Harissa Vinaigrette

• Olive oil

• Fresh lemon juice

• Harissa - provides a little heat.  See Note above about the use of different types of Harissa.

• Kosher salt

• Freshly cracked black pepper

-- Equipment

• Large rimmed sheet pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

My Go-To's

• Heavy-duty rimmed baking sheet
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing quinoa)
• Large mixing bowls
• Harissa seasoning (I used this one)

-- Let's Make It Together

Start by roasting the sweet potatoes until they begin to caramelize around the edges.

While they roast, whisk together the Greek yogurt, harissa, and lemon juice, then coat the chicken completely.

Nestle the chicken onto the same sheet pan with the sweet potatoes and continue roasting until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. Broil the chicken for a couple of minutes at the end for extra color, then slice.

Meanwhile, whisk together the lemon-harissa vinaigrette. Toss it with the cooked quinoa, then gently fold in the roasted sweet potatoes and fresh spinach so the spinach softens slightly from the warmth.

Divide the quinoa mixture between bowls, top with sliced chicken, and finish with crumbled feta.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

Roasting the sweet potatoes first gives them a head start so they're perfectly caramelized by the time the chicken finishes cooking. Using Greek yogurt in the harissa marinade keeps the chicken tender and juicy while creating beautifully browned edges under the broiler. It's a simple combination that delivers big flavor with very little effort.

-- Add Your Touch

This bowl is easy to adapt depending on what you have on hand.

• Swap the spinach for arugula or kale.
• Use roasted butternut squash instead of sweet potatoes.
• Add sliced cucumber or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.
• Top with toasted pistachios or pepitas for crunch.
• Finish with fresh parsley or mint for another layer of flavor.

Set the Mood 

A good meal deserves a great setting. Here are a few easy ways to set the mood when serving this dish.

If you're anything like me, a little planning on the weekend makes it so much easier to enjoy fresh, homemade meals throughout the week. These Harissa Chicken Quinoa Bowls are proof that a single batch of quinoa can become something completely different with just a handful of fresh ingredients and a flavorful sauce.

If you're looking for more fresh, easy dinners to add to your weeknight rotation, here are a few more favorites from my kitchen:

• Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Cutlets with Lemon Dill Cucumber Salad
• Chili Lime Chicken Kabobs
• Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Pasta with Lemon & Peas
• Crispy Smash Burgers with American Cheese
• Chicken Quinoa Salad with Spicy Cashews & Ginger Lime Dressing

Before You Start

Can I cook the quinoa ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook it up to 4 days in advance and refrigerate until you're ready to build your bowls.

Is this recipe spicy?
Harissa adds warmth more than intense heat. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes. Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully and stay especially juicy.

Can I make this for meal prep?
Yes. Store the chicken and quinoa mixture separately or together in airtight containers. Add the feta just before serving for the freshest flavor.

Honey Roasted Rhubarb & Strawberry Labneh Plate - A Southern Meets Mediterranean Spring Breakfast

This Honey Roasted Rhubarb & Strawberry Labneh Plate is a fresh, elegant spring breakfast inspired by Southern and Mediterranean flavors.

Honey Roasted Rhubarb & Strawberry Labneh Plate - A Southern Meets Mediterranean Spring Breakfast

Somewhere between a Southern spring fruit plate and a Mediterranean breakfast spread, this Honey Roasted Rhubarb & Strawberry Labneh Plate became one of those slow-morning recipes we immediately wanted to make again.

Warm honey-roasted rhubarb, cool creamy labneh, fresh strawberries, and pistachios come together in a breakfast plate that feels both rustic and quietly elegant. The rhubarb softens in the oven with honey and orange zest until glossy and tender, while the strawberries stay fresh and bright for contrast.

I like to think it’s a fresh alternative to the usual yogurt parfait — lighter, more textured, and made for spring mornings when rhubarb finally starts appearing at the market.

Whether you serve it with coffee on the patio or as part of a relaxed weekend brunch, this is the kind of breakfast that makes spring feel like it has officially arrived.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

• rhubarb - Fresh rhubarb becomes soft, jammy, and lightly caramelized in the oven while still holding its shape.
• honey - adds floral sweetness that balances the rhubarb’s natural tartness.
• zest of 1/2 orange - brightens the roasted fruit and adds a subtle citrus warmth that ties everything together.
• labneh - creamy, tangy, and rich — labneh gives this breakfast its Mediterranean-inspired base and feels more luxurious than yogurt.
• strawberries, hulled and sliced - keeping the strawberries fresh adds brightness, texture, and color contrast against the warm rhubarb.
• pistachios - adds crunch and a slightly buttery, nutty finish. 

Equipment

• Small baking dish
• Mixing spoon
• Citrus zester or microplane
• Sharp knife
• Small serving platter or shallow bowl

My Go-To’s

• A small white ceramic platter - for café-style plating
• Microplane zester - for bright citrus flavor without bitterness
• Small ceramic baking dish - that keeps the rhubarb snug while roasting

-- Let’s Make It Together

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Place the rhubarb into a small baking dish. Drizzle with honey, sprinkle over the orange zest, and toss gently to coat.

Roast for 18–22 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and glossy but still holding its shape.

While the rhubarb roasts, hull and slice the strawberries.

Spread the labneh onto a serving plate or shallow bowl, creating soft swoops with the back of a spoon. Top with the warm roasted rhubarb and fresh strawberries.

Finish with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios.

Serve immediately with toasted bread, a side of scrambled eggs, or simply enjoy as-is.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to this recipe is roasting the rhubarb just until tender while still holding its shape. Rhubarb can go from perfectly soft to completely collapsed very quickly, so begin checking around the 18-minute mark. Keeping the strawberries fresh also helps balance the warm roasted fruit with brightness and texture, making the entire plate feel lighter and more layered.

-- Add Your Touch

This breakfast plate is easy to adapt depending on what you have in season.

Try swapping the strawberries for cherries, blackberries, or fresh figs later in the year. You can also add granola for extra crunch, sprinkle over fresh mint, or serve everything on toast for a more substantial brunch.

If you prefer a sweeter finish, a little orange blossom honey works beautifully here.

Set the Mood

Meals taste even better when the table feels inviting. Here are a few simple ways to set the mood for this recipe.

If you love seasonal breakfasts that feel simple but elevated, this Honey Roasted Rhubarb & Strawberry Labneh Plate is one of those recipes that captures spring beautifully.

Warm roasted rhubarb, creamy labneh, fresh strawberries, honey, and pistachios come together in a breakfast that feels both relaxed and quietly elegant — perfect for slow mornings, spring brunches, or an easy café-style breakfast at home.

For more seasonal inspiration, you might also enjoy:
• Bakery-Style Strawberry Almond Scones
• Oven-Baked Dutch Baby Pancakes with Roasted Berries
• Golden Croissant French Toast with Honeyed Ricotta & Bananas
• Strawberry Balsamic Ricotta Toast

Before You Start

What is Labneh?

Labneh is a strained yogurt commonly used in Mediterranean cooking. It’s thicker, creamier, and tangier than traditional yogurt, making it perfect for both sweet and savory dishes.

Can I make this ahead?

You can roast the rhubarb ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Assemble the plate just before serving for the freshest texture.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead?

Yes. Greek yogurt works well if you can’t find labneh, although the finished dish will be slightly less rich and creamy.

How do I know when rhubarb is done roasting?

The rhubarb should look glossy and softened while still holding its shape. If it begins falling apart when moved, it has cooked too long.


What should I serve with this?

This plate pairs beautifully with toasted bread, pastries, soft boiled eggs, or coffee for a relaxed spring brunch.

 

 

 

The Mediterranean Table: Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt & Salad

  

These Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt and Mediterranean Salad are bursting with bright, fresh flavor. Juicy, tender, and easy enough for a weeknight, this recipe is inspired by Primal Gourmet’s healthy Mediterranean-style dishes.

The Mediterranean Table: Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt & Salad

My husband and I have always been drawn to Mediterranean flavors — the brightness of lemon, the freshness of herbs, and the way a drizzle of olive oil can make even the simplest ingredients feel special.

One evening while scrolling Instagram, I came across a recipe from Primal Gourmet, one of my favorite creators for Whole30 and healthy spins on global cuisines. His Mediterranean turkey burgers immediately caught my eye — juicy patties packed with spinach and feta, paired with a tangy yogurt sauce and crisp salad. I had to try it.

I didn’t stray far from his version, because honestly, it was perfect as-is. The flavors are incredible — the turkey stays juicy and tender, the feta adds a creamy bite, and that lemon-dill yogurt ties everything together. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet fresh and elegant enough to serve for guests.

This has quickly become one of my new favorites — a dish that tastes like sunshine, simplicity, and the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor every bite.

Enjoy!

Visit Primal Gourmet here.

What Ingredients Do I Need?

These Mediterranean-inspired turkey burgers come together with a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients that balance brightness and comfort beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground Turkey: Lean yet tender, turkey provides the perfect canvas for Mediterranean herbs and creamy feta. Choose 93% lean for juicy, flavorful patties.

• Baby Spinach: Adds color, moisture, and a subtle earthy note that keeps the burgers tender and nutrient-packed.

• Feta Cheese: Brings salty, tangy flavor and little creamy pops in every bite. Look for authentic Greek feta packed in brine for the best flavor.

• Garlic: Freshly grated garlic deepens the flavor and ties together the lemon, dill, and herbs.

• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the burger mixture together while adding a little richness.

• Fresh Dill: Adds a bright, herbal kick to the yogurt sauce that complements the feta perfectly.

• Greek Yogurt: Thick, creamy, and tangy — it’s the base for that dreamy lemon-dill sauce that cools and balances the savory burgers.

• Lemon Juice: Brings brightness and acidity, essential to achieving that true Mediterranean flavor.

• Olive Oil: The heart of Mediterranean cooking — use a good-quality extra-virgin oil for both the salad and cooking the burgers.

• Fresh Vegetables (Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Lettuce): Crisp, juicy, and colorful, they round out the plate with texture and freshness.

• Fresh Parsley: A little sprinkle adds color, freshness, and that classic Mediterranean green note.

Substitutions and Variations

These turkey burgers are wonderfully flexible — you can adjust them for what you have on hand or give them a new flavor twist altogether.

Basic Substitutions

• Protein: Swap ground turkey for ground chicken for a similar lean option. For a richer flavor, try ground lamb or beef.

• Greens: Use finely chopped kale or arugula instead of spinach. Both add a slightly different flavor and extra nutrients.

• Cheese: If you’re out of feta, try goat cheese for a creamy tang or crumbled cotija for a saltier bite.

• Yogurt: Regular Greek yogurt is best, but dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond yogurt work for a lighter option.

• Herbs: No dill? Try fresh mint, basil, or oregano for a different Mediterranean spin.

Variation 1: Greek Island Style

Add a few chopped Kalamata olives and a pinch of lemon zest to the burger mixture, then top the finished burgers with sliced cucumber and a drizzle of olive oil. The olives bring depth and briny balance to the creamy feta.

Variation 2: Spicy Mediterranean Twist

Mix a teaspoon of harissa paste or a pinch of cayenne into the turkey mixture and top the burgers with a spoonful of tzatziki instead of the lemon-dill yogurt. This version brings heat and depth while keeping that fresh, Mediterranean vibe.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Chill the Patties: Refrigerating the burger mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps them firm up and hold their shape beautifully.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients just until mixed — overworking the meat can make the burgers dense.

• Use Damp Hands: Lightly wet your hands before forming the patties; this prevents sticking and gives you smooth, even shapes.

• Cook in Batches: Avoid crowding the pan so the burgers brown evenly and develop that golden crust.

• Make Ahead Friendly: The burger mixture and the yogurt sauce can both be prepped a day ahead — perfect for easy weeknight dinners.

• Serving Idea: Serve these burgers over the salad, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or tucked into warm pita with extra lemon-dill yogurt for a handheld version.

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Quick & Cozy Chicken Shawarma Bowl (Weeknight-Style)

 

This Quick & Cozy Chicken Shawarma Bowl is your go-to weeknight dinner — full of warm spices, crisp veggies, and creamy tahini yogurt sauce over fluffy basmati rice. All the flavor of shawarma, made easy at home in under 30 minutes.

Quick & Cozy Chicken Shawarma Bowl (Weeknight-Style)

I love it when meals are both comforting and full of life — something that wakes up your taste buds without requiring hours in the kitchen.  That’s where this Quick & Cozy Chicken Shawarma Bowl comes in.

It’s inspired by the bold, aromatic flavors of traditional Middle Eastern shawarma but reimagined for the modern weeknight. No rotisserie spit, no takeout — just a skillet, a handful of pantry staples, and layers of texture and color that make dinner feel a little special.

Think tender, spiced chicken nestled on fluffy basmati rice, topped with a lemony cucumber-tomato salad and finished with a cool, garlicky tahini-yogurt drizzle. It’s the kind of bowl that’s simple enough for Tuesday, yet flavorful enough to crave all week long.

If you’re craving something fresh, hearty, and fall-appropriate but still quick enough for a weeknight, this bowl checks every box.

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Basmati Rice – The perfect fluffy base that soaks up all the shawarma flavors.

• Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless, and quick-cooking — ideal for busy nights.

• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps the chicken brown beautifully.

• Shawarma Seasoning – The heart of this dish — a fragrant blend of warm spices like cumin, paprika, turmeric, and garlic.

• Pita or Naan Flatbreads – Toasted until golden for dipping, scooping, or soaking up that creamy sauce.

• Red Onion – Thinly sliced and quick-pickled for a tangy crunch that balances the savory chicken.

• White Wine Vinegar & Honey – The duo behind your easy pickled onions — sweet, sharp, and addictive.

• English Cucumber – Brings a crisp, refreshing bite to each spoonful.

• Grape Tomatoes – Juicy pops of color and flavor that brighten the whole bowl.

• Fresh Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and ties everything together with a citrusy lift.

• Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of freshness to finish each bowl.

• Tahini – The nutty base of the creamy sauce that gives that signature Middle Eastern flavor.

• Plain Greek Yogurt – Adds body and cool creaminess to the tahini sauce.

• Garlic – Just enough to give the sauce a punch of flavor.

• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasoning that enhances every layer.

Substitutions & Variations

Make it your own! This bowl is endlessly flexible — swap ingredients based on what you have or what’s in season.

• Protein: Try boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or swap in shrimp, chickpeas, or tofu for a vegetarian twist.

• Base: Substitute quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for basmati.

• Greens: Add a handful of arugula or baby spinach under the rice for a light, fresh layer.

• Veggies: Use chopped bell peppers, roasted sweet potatoes, or fall squash for a heartier variation.

• Sauce Swap: Replace tahini with hummus or drizzle with garlic sauce if you prefer.

• Flatbread: Use whole wheat pita, lavash, or skip the bread entirely for a gluten-free option.

Kitchen Notes & Tips

Marinate ahead: If you have time, toss the chicken with olive oil and seasoning up to 4 hours in advance for deeper flavor.

• Pickle magic: The quick-pickled onions bring balance and brightness — don’t skip them!

• Serve warm or cold: The leftovers make an excellent chilled lunch bowl the next day.

• Double the sauce: Trust me — you’ll want extra for dipping pita or drizzling over veggies.

• Shortcuts welcome: Pre-cooked rice or a store-bought shawarma spice blend keeps prep quick.

Equipment You May Need

Shawarma Seasoning - This is the one that I use and I love the flavor!

Cast Iron Skillet - perfect for cooking chicken.  I had this skillet for over 10 years and it's a workhorse in my kitchen.  I just love it!

Instant Pot (for cooking rice) - I cook all my rice in my Instant Pot.  It comes out perfect every time.  I love this hands off method.

Stoneware Bowls - I love these bowls for pastas, stir frys, and our many "chicken bowl" foods.

Set The Mood

Bring a little Mediterranean warmth into your kitchen with this cozy fall dinner setup — simple touches that make it feel special without any fuss.