Lentil Power Bowl

A nourishing bowl featuring tender lentils served over hearty grains, topped with caramelized roasted vegetables and drizzled with a creamy tahini dressing. This Lentil Power Bowl is perfect for a balanced, plant-based meal that is both satisfying and full of flavor.

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This vibrant bowl combines the earthiness of green or brown lentils with the fluffiness of quinoa or rice. The medley of roasted sweet potatoes, peppers, and zucchini provides a caramelized sweetness that is beautifully balanced by the zesty and creamy tahini dressing.

Ingredients

• Grains: 1 cup quinoa or brown rice (uncooked), 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• Lentils: 1 cup green or brown lentils (rinsed), 2 ½ cups water, 1 bay leaf, ½ tsp salt
• Roasted Vegetables: 1 medium sweet potato (peeled and cubed), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 zucchini (sliced), 1 red onion (sliced), 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp ground cumin, salt and pepper to taste
• Tahini Dressing: ¼ cup tahini, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp water (plus more as needed), 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 small garlic clove (minced), ½ tsp salt
• Toppings (optional): 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2

Toss sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and tender.

Step 3

While vegetables roast, combine lentils, water, bay leaf, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender. Drain excess water and discard bay leaf.

Step 4

In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add quinoa or rice, reduce heat, cover, and cook according to package instructions (about 15-20 minutes). Fluff with a fork.

Step 5

Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, maple syrup, garlic, and salt until smooth. Add extra water to reach desired consistency.

Step 6

To assemble, divide grains among bowls. Top with cooked lentils and roasted vegetables. Drizzle with tahini dressing and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and parsley, if using. Serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

When cooking the lentils, be sure to simmer them uncovered to keep an eye on their texture, as you want them tender but not mushy. If you are using quinoa, rinsing it thoroughly before cooking helps remove any naturally occurring bitterness.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can substitute the grains as desired with farro, bulgur, or couscous. For extra nutrients, feel free to add leafy greens like spinach or kale. If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of chili flakes to the tahini dressing for a kick.

Serviervorschläge

This bowl is best served warm as a complete main dish. It pairs exceptionally well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a glass of sparkling water with a fresh slice of lemon.

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Enjoy this high-protein, balanced meal that brings together the best of plant-based nutrition. It is a versatile dish that works perfectly for both weekday lunches and wholesome dinners.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I use different lentils?

Green or brown lentils work best as they hold their shape during cooking. Red lentils tend to become mushy, while black lentils take longer to cook. Adjust cooking time accordingly based on your choice.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep components separate in airtight containers for up to 5 days. Store the dressing separately and drizzle just before serving. The grains and lentils reheat beautifully in the microwave.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Simply choose certified gluten-free grains like quinoa, brown rice, or buckwheat. Always check your tahini label to ensure no cross-contamination occurred during processing.

→ What vegetables can I substitute?

Feel free to use whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or eggplant roast beautifully alongside or in place of the suggested vegetables.

→ Is this bowl protein-rich?

Yes, each serving provides 16 grams of protein from the lentils and quinoa combination. This makes it a complete protein source, perfect for those following plant-based diets.

→ Can I freeze this bowl?

The lentils, grains, and roasted vegetables freeze well for up to 3 months. Freeze components separately and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Add fresh dressing and toppings after reheating.