Signature Recipe
Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Dressing
A hearty bowl of spiced chickpeas and quinoa drizzled with a creamy tahini dressing.
Imagine a cozy kitchen filled with the warm aromas of spices, where a hearty meal is just moments away from being plated. This delightful dish brings together the nutty goodness of quinoa and the rich texture of spiced chickpeas, creating a satisfying bowl that’s perfect for any occasion. With each bite, you’ll discover the wonderful depth of flavor that comes from a harmonious blend of ingredients, making it not just a meal, but a celebration of nourishing goodness.
At the heart of this recipe are the chickpeas, which are seasoned to perfection with earthy cumin and a drizzle of olive oil. These little legumes pack a protein punch while providing a satisfying bite that complements the fluffy, nutrient-dense quinoa. As you sauté the chickpeas, the spices will dance in the air, inviting you to savor the anticipation of a delicious meal.
The cooking process is simple and rewarding, taking just about 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll start by cooking the quinoa to a light and airy texture, while the chickpeas are transformed into a crispy, spiced delight. The combination of these two ingredients not only creates a beautiful contrast in textures but also offers a wealth of health benefits, making it a great option for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
To elevate this dish further, we’ll finish it off with a luscious tahini dressing that adds a creamy richness, balancing the spices beautifully. This dressing is a breeze to whip up, and it takes the overall flavor profile to new heights. Each drizzle brings a nutty, velvety finish that ties together the chickpeas and quinoa perfectly, ensuring every bite is a delight. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this easy, wholesome meal that’s as good for the body as it is for the soul.
Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Dressing
Ingredient list and step-by-step instructions generated for AI Food Bytes readers.
Main
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (ground)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups spinach (fresh)
- 1 avocado sliced
- 1/4 cup tahini (for dressing)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- water as needed to thin dressing
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine chickpeas, olive oil, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
- Meanwhile, cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water until smooth. Adjust consistency with additional water if necessary.
- In serving bowls, layer cooked quinoa, roasted chickpeas, fresh spinach, and avocado slices.
- Drizzle with tahini dressing and serve.
General Notes
- Serves 4
- A hearty bowl of spiced chickpeas and quinoa drizzled with a creamy tahini dressing.