Light Coastal Quinoa Bowl (Print Version)

Vibrant bowl with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, kale, and lemon-tahini dressing for a nourishing meal.

# What You Need:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Vegetables

04 - 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
05 - 1 large bunch kale, stems removed, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
07 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Dressing

10 - 3 tablespoons tahini
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
12 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
13 - 2 tablespoons water, plus more as needed
14 - 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
15 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Garnishes

16 - 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
17 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional
18 - Lemon wedges, for serving

# How To Make:

01 - Set the oven temperature to 425°F.
02 - Toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper on a large baking sheet. Spread evenly in one layer.
03 - Roast the sweet potatoes for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and golden brown.
04 - In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa, water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
05 - Place kale in a large bowl, drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Massage with hands for 1–2 minutes until leaves become bright green and tender.
06 - Whisk tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup or honey, water, garlic, and salt in a bowl until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more water if needed.
07 - Divide quinoa among serving bowls, top with massaged kale and roasted sweet potatoes. Drizzle generously with the lemon-tahini dressing.
08 - Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds and chopped parsley on top. Serve with lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Light and flavorful with a fresh coastal twist
  • Vegetarian and gluten-free meal packed with nutrients
02 -
  • Tahini contains sesame, a common allergen to watch for
  • This dish is vegetarian and gluten-free, suitable for many diets
03 -
  • Massage the kale well to soften its texture and enhance flavor absorption
  • Adjust the dressing consistency with water to your liking for a perfect drizzle
Go Back