Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

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Brimming with vibrant colors and nourishing ingredients, this Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing is everything a hearty plant-based meal should be—flavorful, filling, and packed with texture. Each bite gives you the perfect balance of roasted sweetness, nutty grains, crunchy seeds, and a velvety drizzle of tahini that ties it all together. It’s the kind of dish that satisfies your taste buds and leaves you feeling energized, not heavy.

Ideal for cozy fall dinners or healthy weekly meal preps, this bowl celebrates seasonal favorites like roasted butternut squash, crispy chickpeas, and juicy pomegranate arils. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to eat more plant-forward meals, this is a go-to recipe that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve.

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Why You’ll Love This Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

This bowl hits all the right notes when it comes to nutrition and comfort. The quinoa provides a high-protein base, while the roasted squash and chickpeas bring a warm, savory depth. Topped with crunchy pumpkin seeds and a sweet-tart burst from pomegranate seeds, every ingredient brings something to the table. The creamy tahini dressing, lightly tangy and nutty, finishes it off with a luscious texture and bold flavor.

Whether you’re packing it for lunch or serving it at a fall gathering, it feels special without being fussy. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to customize with your favorite veggies or grains.

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What Kind of Quinoa Works Best for This Bowl?

While any quinoa variety will work, tri-color quinoa adds a beautiful visual appeal and a slightly nutty flavor that complements the roasted ingredients well. Be sure to rinse your quinoa before cooking to remove its natural bitterness. You can also substitute with brown rice, farro, or couscous if you want to switch things up.

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Ingredients for the Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

Each ingredient in this vibrant bowl has a purpose—to bring flavor, texture, and nourishment.

• Quinoa – The protein-rich base that gives the bowl a light, fluffy texture and nutty flavor.
• Butternut Squash – Roasted until caramelized, it adds natural sweetness and heartiness.
• Chickpeas – Roasted chickpeas offer crunch and plant-based protein.
• Spinach or Mixed Greens – A fresh, leafy base that balances the warm ingredients.
• Pomegranate Seeds – Bursts of juicy tartness that contrast beautifully with the roasted flavors.
• Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas) – For extra crunch and a dose of healthy fats.
• Dried Cranberries – Chewy, sweet accents that complement the savory notes.
• Walnuts (optional) – Add richness and texture, especially if you like a nutty crunch.
• Creamy Tahini Dressing – The star sauce that ties all elements together with its smooth, tangy, sesame flavor.

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How To Make the Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the butternut squash, then toss it in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.

Step 2: Crisp the Chickpeas

Drain, rinse, and dry canned chickpeas thoroughly. Toss with olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Roast on a separate sheet for 20-25 minutes until crispy.

Step 3: Cook the Quinoa

While the oven works its magic, rinse and cook quinoa according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Tahini Dressing

Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, garlic, warm water, salt, and pepper until smooth and pourable. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, layer a base of greens, then add scoops of quinoa, roasted squash, crispy chickpeas, pomegranate seeds, cranberries, pumpkin seeds, and walnuts. Drizzle generously with tahini dressing and serve.

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How to Serve and Store the Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

This colorful quinoa bowl is best served fresh and slightly warm, allowing the contrast between the roasted squash and chilled greens to shine. It feeds about 4 people as a main dish or 6 as a side. If prepping ahead, keep the tahini dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain the best texture.

To store, place the ingredients in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For meal prep, store the quinoa, squash, and chickpeas separately from the greens to prevent sogginess. The tahini dressing will keep well in the fridge for a week.

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What to Serve With the Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

Hummus and Pita Bread

A classic Mediterranean combo that adds even more protein and makes for a satisfying meal.

Roasted Cauliflower

Its mild flavor and crispy texture complement the spices in the bowl without overpowering it.

Lentil Soup

A warm, comforting soup that pairs beautifully with the hearty quinoa base.

Grilled Halloumi

If you’re not vegan, grilled halloumi adds a savory, salty bite that contrasts the sweet squash.

Baked Falafel

Crispy falafel balls are a great addition for extra crunch and protein.

Apple Slices with Nut Butter

The fresh sweetness of apples with almond or peanut butter adds a fun and healthy snack on the side.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

They bring a bold, slightly bitter edge that balances the sweeter elements in the bowl.

A Glass of Spiced Apple Cider

For fall vibes, this warm drink perfectly complements the seasonal ingredients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! While quinoa provides a great texture and protein boost, you can easily substitute it with brown rice, farro, barley, or even couscous depending on your preference.

Is the tahini dressing spicy?

No, the tahini dressing is creamy, nutty, and slightly tangy from the lemon juice. If you like a kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce.

How do I make this recipe nut-free?

Simply omit the walnuts and double up on seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch without nuts.

Can this be served cold?

Yes, this bowl is delicious both warm and cold. It’s a great option for packed lunches or next-day meals straight from the fridge.

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Let me know in the comments how you made this your own. Did you add avocado? Swap the greens? Add a spicy touch to the dressing? I love seeing your versions and tips, so feel free to share!

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Conclusion

The Harvest Quinoa Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing is more than just a healthy meal—it’s a celebration of texture, color, and seasonal ingredients. Perfect for fall but welcome any time of year, this bowl is endlessly customizable and guaranteed to please. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or prepping lunches for the week, it’s a feel-good meal you’ll come back to again and again.

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