Are you a fan of Cava, the popular Mediterranean-inspired fast-casual chain? If so, you’re probably always on the lookout for ways to recreate your favorite dishes at home. Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 delicious Cava copycat recipes that are perfect for home cooking.
From spicy harissa chicken bowls to hearty grain bowls with tzatziki sauce, and from roasted veggie power bowls to savory lamb meatball pita wraps, these recipes have got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions and mouth-watering photos to guide you every step of the way.
Spicy Harissa Chicken Bowl
Transform your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and spicy chicken bowl recipe, featuring the bold flavors of North African cuisine. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp harissa paste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa or couscous
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: roasted vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, etc.) for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together harissa paste and olive oil.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Place the chicken in a separate baking dish and brush with the harissa mixture.
5. Roast the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve the chicken on top of quinoa or couscous, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: Under 1 hour
Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Tzatziki
This vibrant grain bowl combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with a refreshing and tangy tzatziki sauce, perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa and brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked grains, cucumber, feta cheese, olives, artichoke hearts, and olive oil.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon tzatziki sauce over the grain mixture and garnish with chopped parsley (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Veggie Power Bowl
Get ready to fuel your body with a nutritious and flavorful bowl filled with roasted vegetables! This power bowl is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner that’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite protein (chicken, tofu, or beans), nuts or seeds (almonds, chia, or hemp), and your go-to sauce (tahini, hummus, or ranch)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. On a separate baking sheet, toss bell pepper and zucchini with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Assemble your power bowl by placing roasted vegetables at the bottom, followed by your choice of protein, nuts or seeds, and sauce (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Lamb Meatball Pita Wrap
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and satisfying lamb meatball pita wrap. A combination of tender lamb, savory spices, and crispy vegetables wrapped in a warm pita bread is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble wraps with lamb meatballs, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Falafel Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines crispy falafel with a tangy lemon tahini dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked falafel
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, falafel, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. Drizzle the lemon tahini dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Chicken Pita with Garlic Dill Sauce
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful grilled chicken pita, paired with a tangy and refreshing garlic dill sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 pita breads
– 1/4 cup garlic dill sauce (see below)
– Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion for topping (optional)
Garlic Dill Sauce:
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with olive oil and your favorite seasonings.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating on the grill for a few minutes.
5. Assemble sandwiches with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion (if using).
6. Serve with garlic dill sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Lentil Bowl
This hearty bowl combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of red lentils, all wrapped up in a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times.
2. Roast sweet potatoes in the oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced.
3. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add lentils, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add water or broth to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
6. Slice roasted sweet potatoes into bowls. Top with lentil mixture and garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour
Spicy Crazy Feta Dip
Get ready to level up your snack game with this addictive Spicy Crazy Feta Dip! A perfect blend of creamy feta, spicy heat, and tangy flavor, this dip is sure to become a party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of feta cheese (about 8 oz), crumbled
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or Sriracha)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, sour cream, hot sauce, lemon juice, and garlic.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is ready in no time.
Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of Greece with the smokiness of grilled chicken, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its crispy feta cheese, juicy olives, and tangy red onion, this salad is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Brush mixture on both sides of chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, and red onion.
6. Top with grilled chicken strips and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Harissa Honey Chicken Skewers
Elevate your grilling game with these Harissa Honey Chicken Skewers, bursting with the bold flavors of North Africa. A perfect blend of spicy and sweet, these skewers are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup harissa paste
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together harissa paste, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread 3-4 pieces of chicken onto each skewer.
5. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Bowl
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Bowl Recipe
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, and a hint of Middle Eastern spices!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can of chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. In a separate pan, warm the chickpeas over medium heat with a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. To assemble the bowls, place roasted cauliflower on the bottom, followed by warmed chickpeas, and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the bright Mediterranean flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, mint, and lemon juice.
3. Add cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Lamb Kofta Bowl
Grilled Lamb Kofta Bowl: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional lamb koftas!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads, warmed
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped cucumber, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 6-8 koftas, depending on desired size.
4. Brush both sides of the koftas with olive oil and grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble bowls by placing a grilled kofta on each pita, topping with tzatziki sauce, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken dishes, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of herbs to create a flavorful and healthy bowl perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
6. Assemble bowls by placing chicken on top of rice, mixed greens, and cherry tomatoes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful Roasted Red Pepper Hummus. Perfect as a dip for veggies, crackers, or pita chips, it’s also great as a spread for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup roasted red peppers (see note)
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the red peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
3. Let the peppers cool, then peel off the skin, discarding any seeds.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, roasted red peppers, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
5. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting red peppers)
Harissa Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this flavorful Harissa Avocado Toast, blending the creaminess of avocado with the boldness of North African spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup harissa paste (adjust to taste)
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or red onion for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Mash one avocado slice in a bowl, then stir in the harissa paste.
3. Spread the mashed avocado mixture on toasted bread slices.
4. Top with remaining avocado slice, halved or quartered as desired.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( prep + toast time)
Enjoy your spicy and satisfying Harissa Avocado Toast!
Mediterranean Veggie Wrap
This flavorful wrap is packed with a medley of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack. Fresh vegetables, creamy hummus, and tangy feta cheese come together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons hummus
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay the tortilla flat on a surface.
2. Spread the hummus evenly over the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Top with chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, and feta cheese.
4. Sprinkle parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to go straight away.
Spicy Lentil and Kale Bowl
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of red lentils with the earthy sweetness of kale, all wrapped up in a spicy blanket of cumin and chili flakes. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and crumbled feta cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the cumin and chili flakes; cook 1 minute.
3. Add the lentils and water or broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in kale; cook until wilted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your home cooking with these 18 delicious Cava copycat recipes! From spicy harissa chicken bowls and Mediterranean grain bowls with tzatziki sauce, to roasted veggie power bowls and lamb meatball pita wraps, there’s something for everyone. Discover flavorful dishes like falafel salad with lemon tahini dressing, grilled chicken pita with garlic dill sauce, and sweet potato and lentil bowls. Plus, don’t miss out on spicy feta dip, Greek salads with grilled chicken, and many more mouth-watering options. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
