This Quinoa Power Bowl is a delightful mix of fresh veggies, fluffy quinoa, and a zesty tahini dressing thatβll lift your spirit and energize your day. It's a quick, versatile dish perfect for lunch or a light dinner, offering a vibrant burst of flavors and textures.
Quinoa is the star here, providing a protein-rich base with a subtle nutty flavor. Make sure you rinse it well to remove any bitterness. The cherry tomatoes add sweetness and juiciness, while the cucumber brings a refreshing crunch. Baby spinach gives a boost of vitamins and a tender texture. The red onion slices add a mild zing, and pumpkin seeds provide a delightful, crunchy contrast. For the dressing, tahini offers a creamy, nutty richness, balanced by the tanginess of lemon juice and the sweetness of maple syrup. A touch of olive oil adds smoothness, while garlic, salt, and pepper enhance the flavors.
This Quinoa Power Bowl pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas for added protein. Serve it with a side of crusty whole-grain bread to soak up any extra dressing. Itβs also delightful alongside a fresh fruit salad for a light, refreshing meal.
Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. This step is key to removing that natural coating, saponin, which can taste a bit soapy. Once rinsed, place the quinoa into a medium saucepan with 2 cups of water and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Bring it all to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Youβre looking for the quinoa to be fluffy and for the water to be fully absorbed. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool down while you prep the rest.
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of tahini, the juice of one lemon, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and a minced clove of garlic. Add a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper to taste. This dressing should be smooth and well-combined.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 diced cucumber, 1 cup of baby spinach, and 1/4 cup of thinly sliced red onion. Pour the dressing over this beautiful medley and toss it all together until everything is evenly coated.
Finish off your bowl by sprinkling 1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds over the top, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.