Lentil & Quinoa Bowl

Warm lentils and quinoa topped with roasted veggies.

Lentil & Quinoa Bowl:

A hearty, nutritious bowl packed with plant-based protein, roasted veggies, and a creamy tahini dressing!

Ingredients

1- For the Base:

• ½ cup quinoa
• 1 cup vegetable broth or water
• ½ cup cooked lentils (green or brown)

2- For the Roasted Veggies:

• 1 small sweet potato, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• ½ red onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

3- For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons water (to thin)
• Salt & pepper to taste

4- For Toppings:

• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa & Lentils:
   • Rinse quinoa under cold water.
   • In a pot, bring 1 cup of broth or water to a boil, add quinoa, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until fluffy.
   • If using dry lentils, cook separately according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Roast the Veggies:
   • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
   • Toss sweet potato, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, garlic, water, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
   • Divide quinoa and lentils into bowls.
   • Top with roasted veggies.
   • Drizzle with tahini dressing.
   • Sprinkle with feta cheese, pumpkin seeds, and fresh herbs.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
   • Mix everything together and dig in!

Tips & Variations :

• Make It Vegan: Skip the feta or use dairy-free cheese.
• Extra Crunch: Add roasted chickpeas or crispy tofu.
• Zesty Upgrade: Squeeze extra lemon juice for brightness.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store components separately and assemble fresh!

Enjoy your meal!