How to Make a Vibrant Vegetarian Rainbow Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

Simple Summary

This vibrant Vegetarian Rainbow Bowl with Tahini is a nourishing and colorful meal packed with a variety of vegetables, grains, and protein, all drizzled with a creamy tahini dressing for a satisfying and nutritious lunch or dinner.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Difficulty: Beginner

Ingredients

For the bowl:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
• 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup red cabbage, shredded

For the tahini dressing:

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.

3. While quinoa is cooking, toss diced sweet potato and chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until sweet potato is tender.

4. Prepare the tahini dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, water, maple syrup, and salt until smooth. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency.

5. Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Arrange roasted sweet potato and chickpeas, mixed greens, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and red cabbage in sections over the quinoa.

6. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the bowls just before serving.

7. Serve immediately and enjoy your colorful and nutritious Vegetarian Rainbow Bowl!

Chef's Notes

• For added protein, consider adding grilled tofu or tempeh to the bowl.
• You can prep most components in advance and assemble just before eating for quick meals throughout the week.
• Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonality or preference. Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or beets make great additions.
• To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your tahini is certified gluten-free.
• Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 18g
• Healthy Fats: 25g
• Fiber: 15g
• Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of warm pita bread or whole grain crackers for added texture.
• Pair with a refreshing cucumber-mint infused water or a light herbal tea.
• For a heartier meal, add a small portion of falafel on the side.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.
• This bowl is perfect for a light dinner or a substantial lunch, and it's great for meal prep or packed lunches.