Light Coastal Quinoa Bowl (Print Version)

A vibrant bowl with quinoa, caramelized sweet potatoes, kale, and a lemon-tahini drizzle for a fresh, light meal.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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 Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F.
02 - On a large baking sheet, toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Spread in a single layer.
03 - Roast sweet potatoes for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
04 - Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes, then 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 your hands for 1 to 2 minutes until leaves become bright green and tender.
06 - In a small bowl, whisk tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup or honey, water, garlic, and salt until smooth. Add more water if needed to adjust consistency.
07 - Divide quinoa among serving bowls. Top with massaged kale and roasted sweet potatoes. Drizzle generously with lemon-tahini dressing.
08 - Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds and chopped parsley over the bowls. Serve with lemon wedges.

# Helpful Tips:

01 -
  • Fluffy quinoa provides a hearty base
  • Roasted sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and caramelization
  • Kale brings crisp texture and nutrients
  • Zesty lemon-tahini dressing brightens the flavors
02 -
  • For added protein top with grilled shrimp or chickpeas
  • Substitute baby spinach or arugula for kale if preferred
03 -
  • Rinse quinoa well to remove bitterness
  • Massage kale thoroughly for a tender texture
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