Modern life demands meals that energize without weighing you down. Enter the Avocado and Quinoa Power Bowl with Tahini Dressing—a nutrient-dense bowl brimming with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. I’ve crafted this bowl to be endlessly customizable, yet consistent in delivering bright flavors and satisfying textures. It takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

• 2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth

• 1 ripe avocado, sliced

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup roasted sweet potato cubes (about 1 medium sweet potato)

• 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens

• ¼ cup red cabbage, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons toasted pumpkin seeds

Tahini Dressing

• 3 tablespoons tahini

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons warm water (more to thin)

• Pinch of salt and pepper

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the quinoa.

   • In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water/broth.

   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let sit covered for 5 minutes.

2. Roast the sweet potato.

   • Meanwhile, toss sweet potato cubes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

   • Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 425 °F (220 °C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.

3. Whip up the dressing.

   • Whisk tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, warm water, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust water to reach pourable consistency.

4. Assemble the bowl.

   • Divide quinoa among two bowls. Arrange avocado, chickpeas, roasted sweet potato, spinach, and cabbage in sections.

   • Drizzle each bowl generously with tahini dressing. Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top.

Serving Suggestions

• Protein boost: Add grilled shrimp or sliced turkey breast.

• Veggie variety: Swap cabbage for radish slices or add steamed broccoli.

• Storage: Store components separately in meal-prep containers for up to 4 days.

This bowl brings together creamy avocado, nutty quinoa, and vibrantly roasted veggies—all tied together by a silky tahini dressing. It’s proof that healthy eating can be as indulgent as it is nutritious.