Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

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When I need a wholesome, satisfying meal that doesn’t weigh me down, I turn to this Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing. It’s vibrant, hearty, and beautifully seasonal. The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and dried cranberries is perfectly balanced by the earthy quinoa, crisp apple slices, and a generous drizzle of nutty tahini dressing. Add some toasted pecans and roasted Brussels sprouts, and you’ve got a crave-worthy bowl that brings warmth and nourishment in every bite.

What I love most about this bowl is its versatility. It’s the kind of dish I can prep ahead for weekday lunches or dress up for a cozy fall dinner. Each component adds color, texture, and nutritional punch, making it a complete meal that doesn’t need anything extra. Whether you’re plant-based, vegetarian, or just looking to get more veggies in, this bowl is always a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

This recipe delivers on all fronts—flavor, texture, and health. It’s:

• Naturally vegan and gluten-free
• Packed with protein and fiber from quinoa and chickpeas
• Loaded with fall flavors like roasted sweet potato and Brussels sprouts
• Easy to customize with what you have on hand
• Great for meal prep and busy weeknights

What Kind of Quinoa Should I Use?

Any quinoa works well in this bowl, but I prefer white or tricolor quinoa for their mild flavor and fluffy texture. Be sure to rinse it before cooking to remove the bitter outer coating (saponin), and cook it with a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio for perfect results. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked or frozen quinoa is a great shortcut.

Options for Substitutions

This bowl is all about flexibility. Here are some easy swaps:

• Sweet potatoes can be swapped with roasted butternut squash or carrots.
• Brussels sprouts can be replaced with roasted broccoli or cauliflower.
• Chickpeas work well, but you could use black beans or lentils for a twist.
• Apples can be subbed with pears or pomegranate seeds for a juicy crunch.
• Tahini dressing is classic here, but a maple Dijon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze works too.

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Ingredients for this Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

• Quinoa – This is the protein-packed base that keeps the bowl hearty and nutritious. It has a subtle nutty flavor and a light, fluffy texture when cooked properly.
• Sweet Potatoes – Roasted to caramelized perfection, they bring natural sweetness and a creamy bite.
• Brussels Sprouts – Roasting brings out their nuttiness and crispy edges. They balance the bowl with their savory depth.
• Chickpeas – These provide a boost of plant-based protein and a nice creamy texture.
• Dried Cranberries – A touch of sweetness and chewiness that pairs perfectly with the other roasted ingredients.
• Pecans – Toasted for crunch and richness; they elevate the flavor and texture.
• Apple Slices – Thinly sliced for a refreshing, crisp contrast to the warm roasted vegetables.
• Spinach or Mixed Greens – Forms a fresh and nutrient-rich base layer.
• Tahini Dressing – Creamy, tangy, and nutty; it ties everything together beautifully.

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Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them separately in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. You want the sweet potatoes tender and slightly crisp, and the Brussels sprouts golden-brown with crispy edges.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

While the vegetables are roasting, rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. Add it to a saucepan with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Tahini Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup tahini, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon maple syrup, 1 clove minced garlic, and 2-3 tablespoons of warm water. Adjust water until you reach a pourable consistency. Add salt to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl or plate, start with a handful of greens. Add a scoop of quinoa, a serving of roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, a handful of chickpeas, and a sprinkle of dried cranberries. Top with apple slices and toasted pecans.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Generously drizzle the creamy tahini dressing over the assembled bowl. Add freshly cracked pepper or a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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How Long to Prepare the Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

Prep Time: About 15–20 minutes. This includes peeling and chopping the sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, rinsing the quinoa, and preparing the dressing. If you have pre-cooked quinoa or canned chickpeas, prep is even faster.

Cooking Time: Approximately 25–30 minutes. Roasting the vegetables takes the longest, while the quinoa simmers in the background. You can multitask efficiently by prepping the dressing and arranging the bowl base while everything cooks.

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Tips for Perfect Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

• Roast your vegetables on a single layer for even browning and crispiness.
• Use warm water when mixing tahini dressing to prevent it from seizing up.
• Let the quinoa cool slightly before assembling so it doesn’t wilt your greens.
• Toast the pecans briefly in a dry skillet for enhanced flavor.
• Slice the apples right before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the roasting pan – This causes steaming rather than roasting. Use two pans if needed.
• Skipping the rinse on quinoa – It will taste bitter due to saponins.
• Using cold tahini dressing – Cold dressing thickens too much; always whisk with warm water.
• Forgetting to season each component – Light seasoning throughout builds balanced flavor.
• Pre-slicing apples too early – They can brown quickly and lose freshness.

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What to Serve With Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing?

1. Roasted Tomato Soup

A warm, comforting pairing that makes this a cozy fall or winter meal.

2. Warm Pita or Flatbread

Perfect for scooping up the bowl’s ingredients and soaking up the tahini dressing.

3. Grilled Halloumi or Tofu

Add some salty, savory contrast and extra protein for a more filling dish.

4. Fresh Green Smoothie

Balances the earthiness of the bowl with a burst of freshness and fruitiness.

5. Chai Tea or Spiced Cider

A warm drink that complements the seasonal flavors in the bowl.

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Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store each component separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. This keeps textures crisp and ingredients fresh. The dressing can be refrigerated in a jar and shaken before each use.

Freezer: Quinoa and roasted vegetables can be frozen for up to 2 months. Chickpeas can also be frozen, though apples and greens should always be fresh when serving.

Meal Prep Tip: Assemble the bowls without the apples and dressing if preparing ahead. Add fresh slices and dressing just before eating to preserve texture and taste.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Calories: ~480 kcal per serving
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 11g
• Sugars: 14g
• Sodium: 240mg

(Values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes! It’s a great meal prep option. Keep wet ingredients like apples and dressing separate until ready to eat.

Is the tahini dressing spicy?

No, it’s creamy and mild. You can add crushed red pepper or cayenne for heat.

Can I use canned chickpeas?

Absolutely. Just rinse and drain them well before adding to the bowl.

What’s a good substitute for tahini?

You can use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even hummus for a different creamy texture.

Can I serve this warm?

Yes! While it’s great at room temperature or chilled, it tastes amazing with warm quinoa and roasted veggies.

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Conclusion

The Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing is everything I want in a meal: filling yet light, colorful, nourishing, and full of texture. Whether you’re seeking out easy lunch ideas, cozy dinner recipes, or just a delicious way to eat more veggies, this bowl ticks every box. Make it once, and you’ll see why it’s a staple in my kitchen all season long.

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