Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls

Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls are a delightful and nutritious option for any meal occasion. These power bowls are packed with flavor, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Featuring roasted Brussels sprouts and smoky butternut squash, this dish is not only vegan and gluten-free but also bursting with vibrant colors and textures that make every bite exciting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with vegetables, quinoa, and healthy fats, these bowls provide a balanced meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your power bowls by adding your favorite veggies or toppings to suit your taste.
• Easy Meal Prep: Prepare everything in advance for a quick and convenient weeknight dinner or lunch on the go.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of maple chipotle Brussels sprouts and smoky squash creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Vegan-Friendly: A perfect choice for those seeking plant-based meals without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Ideal for roasting vegetables evenly, ensuring they become tender and flavorful.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for cooking quinoa to fluffy perfection while absorbing all the liquid.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing dressings smoothly without clumps.

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Ingredients

Quinoa Power Bowls with Maple Chipotle Brussels and Smoky Butternut Squash are perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinner. Vegan, gluten free, and equal parts nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients:
– 14 to 16 oz. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided (sub avocado oil)
– 1 Tbsp. adobo sauce (from a can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce)
– 1 Tbsp. maple syrup
– 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided
– 3 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash (from 1 small squash)
– 1 tsp. smoked paprika
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– 1 cup dry quinoa
– 2 cups lower-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
– 2 to 3 handfuls of chopped kale
– Sliced avocado for topping (optional)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– 1 Tbsp. honey (sub maple syrup)
– 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
– 1/4 tsp. kosher salt

How to Make Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for roasting the vegetables.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

• Arrange the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet.
• Toss them with 1 Tbsp. olive oil, adobo sauce, maple syrup, and 1/2 tsp. salt.
• On a separate baking sheet, toss the butternut squash with the remaining olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and another 1/2 tsp. salt.
• Place both baking sheets in the oven.
• Roast for about 25 minutes, stirring once halfway through until all vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Cook the Quinoa

In a small saucepan:
1. Combine quinoa and broth.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until fluffy—about 15 minutes.
4. Once done, uncover and stir in chopped kale, allowing it to wilt from residual heat.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl:
* Combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), and salt.
* Whisk together until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

To serve:
1. Divide the quinoa-kale mixture evenly into four bowls.
2. Top each bowl with roasted Brussels sprouts and butternut squash.
3. Drizzle with dressing before serving.
4. Garnish with sliced avocado or other favorite toppings if desired.

Enjoy these vibrant Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls as a hearty main course full of flavors!

How to Serve Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls

Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls are versatile and can be customized to suit any meal occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch or a light dinner, these bowls can be adapted with various toppings and sides.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Avocado: Sliced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some roasted almonds or walnuts for added crunch and protein.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken: For a meatier option, add slices of grilled chicken breast to boost protein content.
• Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas can provide additional texture and plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist.
• Tofu: Marinated and sautéed tofu offers an excellent vegan source of protein that absorbs flavors well.

Drizzle with Flavorful Sauces

• Tahini Sauce: A drizzle of tahini adds a nutty flavor that complements the veggies beautifully.
• Sriracha or Hot Sauce: For heat lovers, add a few drops of sriracha to spice things up.

How to Perfect Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls

Creating the perfect Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your bowls are always delicious.

• Bold seasoning: Use spices like smoked paprika or cumin to infuse your veggies with rich flavors.
• Proper cooking: Make sure not to overcook the quinoa; it should be fluffy but fully cooked for the best texture.
• Layer wisely: Start with quinoa at the bottom, followed by veggies, then toppings so each bite has balanced flavors.
• Make it colorful: Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables; they not only look appealing but also provide different nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements savory power bowls perfectly.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and lightness to balance the richness of the bowls.
3. Hummus Platter: Serve with pita or veggie sticks for dipping; it’s great for adding extra fiber.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a delightful pop of flavor that pairs well with roasted veggies.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is nutritious and adds vibrant color to your meal.
6. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to hearty power bowls.
7. Quinoa Tabbouleh: This herb-filled dish made from quinoa rather than bulgur provides an interesting twist while keeping it grain-based.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be a fun adventure, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls when making Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls and how to avoid them.

• Not preheating the oven: Preheating ensures even cooking. Always set your oven temperature in advance to avoid undercooked veggies.
• Overcooking quinoa: Overcooked quinoa becomes mushy. Follow the recommended cooking time and keep an eye on it to ensure a fluffy texture.
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning is key to flavor. Don’t skip adding salt and spices; they elevate the dish significantly.
• Using stale ingredients: Old ingredients can affect taste and texture. Always check the freshness of your spices, oils, and grains before use.
• Not preparing enough for leftovers: These bowls are great for meal prep. Make a larger batch so you have delicious meals ready for busy days.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Allow the bowls to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot (around 2-3 minutes).
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a pan over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls.

How can I customize my Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls?

You can add any seasonal vegetables or your favorite proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra nutrition.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! These bowls are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare all components separately and assemble them when ready to eat.

Are Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls healthy?

Absolutely! They are packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables, quinoa, and healthy fats from olive oil.

What is the best way to cook quinoa?

Rinse it first under cold water, then cook with broth in a ratio of 1 cup quinoa to 2 cups broth, bringing it to a boil before reducing heat.

Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with brown rice, farro, or couscous based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize with different veggies or toppings based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!