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Anti-Inflammatory Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Yogurt Recipe

If you’re looking to nourish your body and delight your taste buds, this Anti-Inflammatory Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Yogurt Recipe is absolutely fan-freaking-tastic. It’s packed with vibrant flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a creamy tahini yogurt sauce that ties everything together beautifully. Trust me, once you try this bowl, it’ll quickly become a go-to for lunches or cozy dinners.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced Ingredients: Combining quinoa, sweet potatoes, spinach, and chickpeas offers a perfect blend of protein, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Spices: Turmeric and cumin add flavor and amazing health benefits that fight inflammation naturally.
  • Creamy Tahini Yogurt Sauce: This sauce not only tastes incredible but also adds a smooth texture while keeping it light and wholesome.
  • Easy to Customize: You can easily swap veggies or tweak spices to fit your mood or what’s in season.

Ingredients & Why They Work

I love how the ingredients in this Anti-Inflammatory Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Yogurt Recipe come together to give you nutrients and flavor you actually crave. Each has a purpose, and some little tips for picking the best will set you up for success.

Anti-Inflammatory Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Yogurt, healthy quinoa bowl recipes, anti-inflammatory lunch ideas, nourishing plant-based bowls, vibrant vegan meal ideas - Flat lay of a small mound of uncooked quinoa grains, two medium diced orange sweet potatoes, a handful of fresh baby spinach leaves, a small pile of golden chickpeas, one ripe avocado sliced showing green flesh and seed removed, a small white bowl of creamy beige tahini, a small white bowl of thick plain yogurt, a small white bowl with fresh lemon halves and lemon juice, a small white bowl with golden extra virgin olive oil, a small white bowl with bright yellow ground turmeric powder, a small white bowl with warm brown ground cumin powder, a couple of whole uncracked brown eggs, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Quinoa: This ancient grain is a complete protein and cooks up fluffy—rinse it well to remove any bitterness!
  • Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet with a creamy texture once roasted, they bring color and beta-carotene to your bowl.
  • Baby Spinach: Tossed fresh on top for a vibrant, iron-rich crunch that balances warm ingredients.
  • Chickpeas: Drained and roasted, they add that smoky, protein-packed crispiness every bowl needs.
  • Avocado: Sliced and creamy, it cools the spices and offers healthy fats that keep you full longer.
  • Tahini: Made from ground sesame seeds, tahini gives sauce its nutty depth and is full of minerals like calcium.
  • Plain Yogurt: Adds tang and creaminess while enhancing the healthful probiotics when using live-culture yogurt.
  • Lemon Juice: Brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness, bringing balance.
  • Ground Cumin: Warm and earthy, cumin teams up wonderfully with turmeric to enhance that savory flavor.
  • Ground Turmeric: The superstar anti-inflammatory spice, known for its bright color and immune benefits.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Used in roasting and sautéing, it adds healthy fats and rounds out the flavors.
  • Salt and Pepper: Always essential—to taste, but don’t skip them as they elevate every ingredient.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One thing I love about this Anti-Inflammatory Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Yogurt Recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily tweak it to suit your personal preferences or whatever you have in your fridge.

  • Variation: Sometimes I swap sweet potatoes for roasted butternut squash or add roasted Brussels sprouts when it’s in season—the flavors work beautifully together.
  • Make it vegan: Use coconut or almond yogurt instead of plain yogurt to make the tahini sauce dairy-free without losing creaminess.
  • Spice it up: If you like a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper tossed with the chickpeas is my go-to for extra kick.
  • Bulk it up: For a heartier meal, throw in some shredded kale or cooked lentils for extra fiber and texture.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Anti-Inflammatory Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Yogurt Recipe

Step 1: Cook Quinoa to Fluffy Perfection

Start by rinsing the quinoa thoroughly under cold running water—that bit is key to remove the natural coating called saponin, which can taste bitter. Then add one cup quinoa and two cups water to a saucepan and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes—check that all the water is absorbed by then. Fluff it with a fork when done so it’s light and airy, perfect as the cozy base of your bowl.

Step 2: Roast Sweet Potatoes with Spices

While the quinoa cooks, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss diced sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to coat evenly. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer so they roast nicely instead of steaming. Roast for about 25 minutes until tender and caramelized. I like to turn them halfway through to get those crispy edges—you’ll smell them when they’re just right!

Step 3: Sauté Chickpeas with Turmeric and Cumin

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the drained chickpeas, sprinkle with turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally until they get golden and a little crispy on the outside. This step adds amazing texture and a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet potatoes.

Step 4: Whisk Up Your Tahini Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl, combine tahini, plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together and slowly add water a little at a time until you reach your desired pourable consistency—it should be smooth and creamy but not too runny. This sauce really brings the whole bowl to life with its nutty, tangy creaminess.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl

Start with a generous bed of quinoa, then layer roasted sweet potatoes and crispy chickpeas on top. Add fresh baby spinach leaves and several slices of creamy avocado for contrast. Finally, drizzle the tahini yogurt sauce over everything. Serve immediately and dive in!

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Tips from My Kitchen

  • Don’t Skip Rinsing Quinoa: I once skipped this step, and the quinoa tasted a little soapy—lesson learned is to always rinse for the freshest flavor.
  • Roasting Sweet Potatoes Evenly: Toss them well in olive oil, and spread them so they’re not crowded—that way they crisp instead of steam.
  • Toast Your Spices: Briefly warming cumin and turmeric before adding to chickpeas releases extra aroma and depth.
  • Tahini Sauce Consistency: Adding water little by little helps avoid a sauce that’s too thick or thin—aim for something easily drizzle-able.

How to Serve Anti-Inflammatory Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Yogurt Recipe

Anti-Inflammatory Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Yogurt, healthy quinoa bowl recipes, anti-inflammatory lunch ideas, nourishing plant-based bowls, vibrant vegan meal ideas - A deep white bowl with a colorful mix of food sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is made of soft orange chunks of roasted vegetables scattered around with round beige chickpeas. On top of this, there are white pieces of grilled cheese with a slightly browned edge. A creamy white sauce is drizzled generously over the vegetables and cheese. The dish is finished with a handful of fresh green arugula leaves scattered on the top and a sprinkle of brown spice seasoning covering everything lightly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping this bowl with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Sometimes, a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top brightens everything up beautifully. If you like crunch, crushed walnuts or pumpkin seeds add a tasty texture contrast that never disappoints.

Side Dishes

This Anti-Inflammatory Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Yogurt Recipe is pretty complete on its own, but I often serve it alongside a simple cucumber salad or a bowl of homemade lentil soup for a heartier meal. A side of warm flatbread or pita also pairs nicely to scoop up all that delicious tahini yogurt sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I like to serve this bowl in pretty glass jars for meal-prep or pack it as a layered lunch salad. Another fun presentation is plating it with individual elements artfully arranged in sections on a large platter so everyone can customize their bowls at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover roasted vegetables, quinoa, and chickpeas separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the tahini yogurt sauce in its own jar to maintain its fresh texture. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat the warm components and add fresh spinach and avocado before serving.

Freezing

I usually don’t freeze the whole bowl because the tahini yogurt sauce and fresh greens don’t freeze well, but you can freeze the cooked quinoa and roasted sweet potatoes separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Reheating

I recommend reheating quinoa and roasted veggies in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to keep them moist. Reheat chickpeas separately for crispiness—either in a hot pan or under a broiler for a minute. Add fresh spinach, avocado, and drizzle tahini yogurt sauce right before serving for the best freshness.

FAQs

  1. Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa in this recipe?

    Absolutely! Brown rice can be a delicious substitute. Just keep in mind it takes a bit longer to cook than quinoa, so adjust your prep time accordingly. The texture will be heartier, which some people really enjoy.

  2. Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

    Yes! Swapping the plain yogurt for a plant-based option like coconut or almond yogurt makes the tahini yogurt sauce vegan-friendly without sacrificing creaminess or flavor.

  3. How can I make the tahini yogurt sauce thinner or thicker?

    Add water a little at a time to thin the sauce if it’s too thick, or reduce the water and add more tahini or yogurt if you want it creamier and thicker. Whisk well between additions for the perfect consistency.

  4. Can I prepare this bowl entirely in advance?

    You can prep most ingredients ahead, but I recommend assembling just before eating to keep things fresh, especially the spinach and avocado which can wilt or brown over time.

Final Thoughts

This Anti-Inflammatory Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Yogurt Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s not only nourishing but so satisfying to eat—plus it’s deceptively simple. I love sharing it with friends who think healthy food can be boring and seeing their faces light up when they taste how vibrant and delicious it is. Give it a try; I promise it’ll become a recipe you come back to again and again.

Print
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Anti-Inflammatory Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Yogurt Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 5 reviews
  • Author: Caroline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A nutrient-packed Anti-Inflammatory Glow Bowl featuring quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, turmeric-spiced chickpeas, fresh spinach, and creamy tahini yogurt dressing for a wholesome and vibrant meal.


Ingredients

Grains and Vegetables

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced

Legumes

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained

Sauces and Seasonings

  • ½ cup tahini
  • ½ cup plain yogurt
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Cook quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water thoroughly. In a saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes or until water is fully absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
  2. Roast sweet potatoes: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss diced sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tsp ground cumin, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Arrange on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. Sauté chickpeas: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add drained chickpeas along with 1 tsp ground turmeric, 1 tsp ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chickpeas become crispy and golden.
  4. Prepare tahini yogurt dressing: In a bowl, whisk together tahini, plain yogurt, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and gradually add water until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
  5. Assemble bowls: Place cooked quinoa as the base in each serving bowl. Layer roasted sweet potatoes and crispy chickpeas on top. Add fresh baby spinach leaves and sliced avocado. Drizzle generously with tahini yogurt dressing before serving.

Notes

  • Quinoa can be cooked in vegetable broth instead of water to enhance flavor.
  • For a vegan version, substitute plain yogurt with dairy-free yogurt.
  • Adjust turmeric and cumin to taste for desired spice level.
  • Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs like parsley for extra texture and flavor.
  • Leftover roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 470 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 55 g
  • Fiber: 12 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg

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