Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (170g) uncooked white or tri-color quinoa
  • 2 cups (480ml) water or low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) sea salt
  • 1 medium head (500g) cauliflower, cut into small florets
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) chickpeas, drained and patted dry
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp (2g) smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp (2g) garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp (1g) salt
  • 1/2 tsp (1g) black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) runny tahini
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) maple syrup
  • 1 clove (5g) garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp (45ml) warm water
  • 2 cups (60g) baby spinach
  • 1/4 cup (30g) pumpkin seeds

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve under cold water for 30 seconds. Combine quinoa, water or broth, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large sheet pan, toss cauliflower florets and dried chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Spread in a single layer to ensure roasting rather than steaming.
  3. Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the edges are mahogany-colored and fragrant.
  4. Prepare the dressing by whisking together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, and minced garlic. Gradually stir in warm water until the desired creamy consistency is reached.
  5. Assemble the bowls by layering baby spinach at the bottom, followed by the cooked quinoa, roasted cauliflower and chickpeas, and topped with pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with lemon-tahini dressing.