Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

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The Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing is one of my favorite ways to celebrate seasonal produce while keeping things wholesome and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that feels hearty and cozy, but doesn’t leave you weighed down. I’ve made this countless times—especially during the fall and winter months—because it brings together earthy roasted vegetables, protein-packed quinoa and chickpeas, a touch of sweetness from dried cranberries, and a bright crunch from fresh apples. Every bite is a balance of flavor and texture.

What makes this bowl a true standout, though, is the creamy tahini dressing. It’s simple but so powerful—nutty, lemony, and rich without needing dairy or heavy oils. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your week, this Harvest Quinoa Bowl delivers comfort, nutrition, and color in every forkful.

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

It checks all the boxes: it’s nourishing, vibrant, and surprisingly filling. The ingredients are nutrient-dense and easy to prep in advance, making this a great meal-prep option. Plus, it offers a variety of flavors—sweet, savory, nutty, and tangy—all brought together in one colorful bowl. It’s also endlessly customizable and works great for lunch or dinner.

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What Kind of Quinoa Should I Use?

You can use white, red, or tricolor quinoa for this recipe. I usually go for tricolor because it offers a bit more texture and visual appeal. The key is to rinse the quinoa well before cooking to remove its natural bitterness. Cooked quinoa serves as a fluffy, protein-rich base that pairs beautifully with the roasted and raw toppings.

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Options for Substitutions

• Chickpeas: Swap with black beans, lentils, or edamame if preferred.
• Brussels Sprouts: Roasted broccoli or cauliflower can easily step in here.
• Sweet Potatoes: Try using butternut squash or even roasted carrots for a similar sweetness.
• Apple: Pears, pomegranate seeds, or orange slices work well for a fresh twist.
• Tahini Dressing: A yogurt-based lemon dressing or a simple balsamic vinaigrette can be a good substitute if you’re out of tahini.

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Ingredients for this Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

• Quinoa: A protein-rich, gluten-free grain that provides a fluffy and hearty base for the bowl.
• Chickpeas: These legumes add creaminess, plant-based protein, and fiber, making the bowl more filling.
• Sweet Potatoes: Roasted to tender perfection, they add natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Brussels Sprouts: When roasted, they bring a rich, slightly caramelized flavor and some crunchy texture.
• Baby Spinach: Acts as a leafy green base, adding freshness and a nutrient-dense foundation.
• Green Apple: Offers a crisp, tart contrast to the roasted elements, balancing the flavors.
• Dried Cranberries: Provide chewiness and a pop of sweetness that rounds out the savory ingredients.
• Pecans: Toasted for crunch and nutty depth, they bring a seasonal feel to the dish.
• Tahini: The star of the dressing, it gives a creamy, nutty base without any dairy.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the dressing and balances the richness of tahini.
• Maple Syrup: Adds a hint of sweetness to the dressing, enhancing the fall flavors.
• Garlic & Salt: Essential for flavor depth and seasoning in the tahini dressing.

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Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Dice sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss both with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and tender.

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Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

Rinse 1 cup of quinoa thoroughly under cold water. In a saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.

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Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Tahini Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 grated garlic clove, a pinch of salt, and 2-3 tablespoons of warm water until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more water if needed.

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Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Start with a bed of baby spinach in your serving bowl. Add a generous scoop of cooked quinoa. Top with roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, chickpeas, apple slices, dried cranberries, and pecans.

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Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle the creamy tahini dressing generously over the bowl. Give everything a gentle toss or serve as-is to highlight each ingredient. Finish with a sprinkle of black pepper or extra lemon juice if desired.

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

Prep Time: Most of the chopping and ingredient prep—like slicing apples, halving Brussels sprouts, and draining chickpeas—can be done in 10–15 minutes. Quinoa can be cooking while you prep the vegetables, which saves time.

Cooking Time: Roasting the sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts takes about 25–30 minutes. During this time, you can also whisk up the tahini dressing and set the table, making this an efficient and streamlined meal.

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Tips for Perfect Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

• Roast the vegetables until they have golden edges for added flavor and texture.
• Use warm water when mixing the tahini dressing to help it blend smoothly.
• Make the quinoa in advance and chill it for a more refreshing bowl—or serve warm if preferred.
• Toast the pecans for 5 minutes in a dry skillet to bring out their flavor.
• Thinly slice the apples just before serving to keep them from browning.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: This causes the veggies to steam instead of roast.
• Not rinsing quinoa: Skipping this step can leave a bitter taste in the bowl.
• Thick dressing: If the tahini dressing is too thick, add a bit more warm water to achieve a drizzle-worthy consistency.
• Skipping seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential, especially on the roasted veggies.
• Adding apples too early: They can brown quickly, so add them at the last minute.

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

1. Roasted Tomato Soup

A warm and comforting soup makes a great contrast to the chilled or room temp bowl.

2. Grilled Flatbread

Perfect for scooping up bites of quinoa and tahini dressing.

3. Lemon Herb Hummus

Adds even more plant-based protein and creaminess to the plate.

4. Green Smoothie

If you’re having the bowl for lunch, a nutrient-packed smoothie makes a refreshing pairing.

5. Herbal Tea

Mint or chamomile tea complements the natural sweetness and earthiness of the bowl.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store each component separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. This keeps the texture of each element intact and prevents the apples and greens from getting soggy.

Meal Prep: Assemble the bowls without the dressing and apple slices. Add those just before serving to keep the flavors fresh and crisp.

Freezing: Quinoa, chickpeas, and roasted veggies freeze well for up to 1 month. Do not freeze fresh greens, apples, or the tahini dressing.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per Serving – 1 Bowl Approx.)

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugars: 10g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Prep all components separately and store in the fridge. Assemble when ready to eat, and add apples and dressing just before serving.

Can I use canned chickpeas?

Absolutely! Just drain, rinse, and pat them dry before adding.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep. Just keep the apples and dressing separate until serving.

What if I don’t have tahini?

Try using almond butter or a light vinaigrette instead. It won’t be the same, but it will still be delicious.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes, serve the quinoa and roasted veggies warm for a cozy, comforting version of the bowl.

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Conclusion

The Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing is a vibrant, nutrient-packed meal that brings warmth, freshness, and balance to your plate. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light dinner or hearty lunch, it’s easy to prepare, beautiful to serve, and endlessly adaptable. This bowl is proof that healthy food can be both satisfying and exciting!

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