Quinoa & Roasted Veggie Bowl with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

Ingredients

For the Bowl:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 red onion, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds or sunflower seeds

For the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin out)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa:

   • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil.
   • Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
   • Fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. Roast the Vegetables:

   • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
   • Place the diced sweet potato, zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet.
   • Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
   • Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized.

3. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup (or honey), minced garlic, and water.
   • Adjust consistency with more water if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Bowl:

   • Divide the cooked quinoa into serving bowls.
   • Top with the roasted vegetables, feta cheese (if using), fresh herbs, and toasted nuts/seeds.
   • Drizzle with the lemon-tahini dressing.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

   • Enjoy warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

✅ High in protein & fiber
✅ Rich in vitamins & antioxidants
✅ Gluten-free & easily vegan-friendly
✅ Quick to make & meal-prep friendly

Let me know if you’d like a different variation or another type of recipe! 😊