Name: Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Plant-Based / Seasonal
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa (uncooked) 2 cups vegetable broth or water 2 cups butternut squash, cubed 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 pinch ground cinnamon salt and pepper, to taste 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 apple, thinly sliced 1/3 cup dried cranberries 1/3 cup pecans 2 cups spinach or mixed greens 1/3 cup tahini 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 tablespoon maple syrup 1 garlic clove, minced 2–4 tablespoons water pinch of salt

Vibrant, hearty, and loaded with texture, this Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing is the fall-inspired meal prep hero your week needs. With sweet roasted butternut squash, crispy Brussels sprouts, tart cranberries, protein-packed chickpeas, and earthy quinoa, every bite is balanced and deeply satisfying. All of this gets brought together with a luscious tahini dressing that’s equal parts creamy and zesty.

Whether you’re looking for a nourishing plant-based dinner or a lunch that keeps you full and energized, this bowl delivers. It’s simple to customize, stores beautifully, and celebrates the best seasonal produce with comforting flavors and nourishing goodness.

What Kind of Quinoa Should I Use?

Tri-color quinoa adds visual interest and a slightly nuttier flavor, but white quinoa works just as well for its soft, fluffy texture. Make sure to rinse it well before cooking to remove any bitterness. Cook it in vegetable broth instead of water if you want extra flavor infused into the base.

Ingredients for the Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

Quinoa: A high-protein grain that acts as the perfect neutral base to soak up all the flavors.
Butternut Squash: Roasted until caramelized, its natural sweetness pairs perfectly with savory elements.
Brussels Sprouts: Halved and roasted for crispy edges and rich, earthy flavor.
Chickpeas: Adds protein and a bit of bite; roasted or simply seasoned, they round out the bowl.
Apple Slices: Thinly sliced for a fresh, crisp contrast to the warm components.
Dried Cranberries: Their tart chewiness offers the perfect sweet-tart surprise in every bite.
Pecans: Toasted for crunch and nutty depth.
Spinach or Greens: A fresh bed to build your bowl on; adds color and nutrients.
Creamy Tahini Dressing: A blend of tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, garlic, and water that ties everything together.

How To Make the Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

Step 1: Roast the Veggies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed butternut squash and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water, then add it to a saucepan with 2 cups of vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Step 3: Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and golden. Set aside to cool.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Tahini Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 minced garlic clove, a pinch of salt, and 2-4 tablespoons of water until smooth and pourable. Adjust the water for your desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Start with a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens in each bowl. Add a scoop of quinoa, then layer on roasted veggies, chickpeas, apple slices, cranberries, and toasted pecans. Drizzle generously with the tahini dressing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm or at room temperature. This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge or gently reheated.

Serving and Storing the Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

This bowl is as practical as it is beautiful. Serve it freshly assembled for a warm and comforting meal, or chill it for a refreshing, hearty salad-style lunch. The combination of warm roasted vegetables with cool crisp apples and greens makes it perfect for any time of day.

For storing, keep all components separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store the dressing in a small jar so it stays creamy and pourable. When ready to eat, simply reheat the quinoa and vegetables, then assemble with fresh apples, greens, and a drizzle of dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for tahini in the dressing?

If you’re out of tahini, try almond butter or cashew butter. They provide a creamy texture and nutty flavor, though the taste will be slightly different.

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes! Roast the veggies and cook the quinoa in advance. Store all ingredients separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Are there other veggies I can use?

Absolutely. Try roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower for variety. The key is using vegetables that roast well and complement the nutty quinoa and creamy dressing.

How do I make it more filling?

Add a hard-boiled egg, roasted chicken, or tofu to bump up the protein. Avocado slices also add richness and healthy fats.

Is this bowl gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your tahini and broth labels to be sure.

Can I serve this cold?

Definitely. It works great as a chilled grain bowl. Just make sure the roasted veggies have cooled properly before storing.

Want More Bowl Meal Ideas?

If you loved this Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing, here are more fresh and satisfying bowl-style meals you’ll want to try next:

Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a hearty and high-protein dinner.
Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake to start your morning with something warm and nourishing.
Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup if you’re craving something with cozy spice.
Healthy Mediterranean Salmon Dinner for bright flavors and healthy fats.
Creamy Tortellini Recipe when you want a comforting, creamy meal in one bowl.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad or healthy lunch board so you can find it when meal prep time rolls around:
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And I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own! Did you try roasted carrots instead of squash? Add avocado or a protein on top? Drop a comment and share your favorite variation, or ask any questions you have. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen!