A vibrant, nourishing bowl packed with plant-based goodness! This Quinoa Chickpea Buddha Bowl is a balanced blend of protein, fiber, and colorful veggies, all drizzled with a zesty tahini-lemon dressing. Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch, it’s a satisfying option that supports stable blood sugar levels while fueling your body with essential nutrients.
Quinoa Chickpea Buddha Bowl
Course: Main DishCuisine: FusionDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes15
minutes320
kcalIngredients
1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked
1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium cucumber, diced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium carrot, shredded
1 medium avocado, sliced
2 tbsp pumpkin seeds (optional, for garnish)
- For the Dressing:
3 tbsp tahini
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp water (or more for desired consistency)
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Quinoa: Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.
- Assemble the Bowl: Divide the cooked quinoa among four bowls. Arrange the spinach, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, shredded carrot, and avocado on top of the quinoa.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, water, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust the water to reach your desired consistency.
- Drizzle and Garnish: Drizzle the tahini dressing over each bowl. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds for added crunch, if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately, or store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours if meal-prepping.
Notes
- Why It Works: This Buddha Bowl is a nutrient powerhouse that’s as beautiful as it is healthful. Quinoa provides complete plant-based protein and slow-digesting carbohydrates to keep blood sugar levels stable. Chickpeas add more protein and fiber, enhancing satiety and digestion. The mix of non-starchy vegetables like spinach, cucumber, and tomatoes is low in glycemic impact, helping manage blood sugar effectively. The healthy fats from avocado and the tahini dressing promote heart health and provide a creamy, satisfying texture without the need for heavy sauces. Whether you’re managing pre-diabetes or just looking for a nourishing meal, this bowl is a flavorful, balanced choice that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition!
