When it comes to plant-based dining, a quinoa bowl is your ticket to delicious simplicity. It’s like a blank canvas waiting for your creativity—nutty quinoa, vibrant veggies, creamy dressings, and bold seasonings, all in one satisfying bowl. This dish doesn’t just nourish the body; it sparks joy with every bite. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up dinner in under 30 minutes, this recipe will become your go-to.
Need to Know
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Difficulty Level: 2/5
- Percentage of Ingredients You May Find in Your Cupboards: 85%
- Protein: 18g per serving
- Calories: 420 kcal per serving
Ingredients
For the bowl:
- 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
- 2 cups water or vegetable stock
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup chickpeas (cooked or canned, rinsed and drained)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the dressing:
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings:
- A handful of sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
- Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped
- Chilli flakes for a kick
Method
- Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. Combine with water or vegetable stock in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Veggies: While the quinoa cooks, chop your tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and onion. Set them aside with the baby spinach and chickpeas.
- Whip Up the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add water, one teaspoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
- Assemble the Bowl: In individual bowls, start with a base of spinach. Add a generous scoop of quinoa, then layer on the tomatoes, cucumber, chickpeas, avocado, and onion.
- Drizzle and Top: Pour the creamy tahini dressing over the bowl, sprinkle with seeds, herbs, or chilli flakes, and serve immediately.
Final Thoughts
This plant-based quinoa bowl isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients. It’s perfect for those seeking a light yet satisfying dish packed with protein and fibre. The flexibility to swap in seasonal veggies or add your favourite toppings means you’ll never get bored. Healthy, easy, and endlessly customisable, this dish truly earns its spot as a weekly staple.
