Lentil Power Bowl

Experience a bowl full of vitality with our Lentil Power Bowl, a nourishing dish designed for a balanced, plant-based lifestyle. This fusion meal combines protein-packed green or brown lentils with hearty grains and a vibrant assortment of caramelized roasted vegetables, all brought together by a creamy, lemon-infused tahini dressing.

Save

The beauty of this bowl lies in its textures and the smokiness of the spices. By roasting the vegetables at a high heat, you unlock a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the earthy lentils. It is a simple yet sophisticated dish that proves healthy eating never has to be boring.

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 the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

Toss the 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: Simmer the Lentils

In a saucepan, combine lentils, water, bay leaf, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Drain any excess water and discard the bay leaf.

Step 4: Prepare the Grains

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

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing

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

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Divide the grains among four bowls. Top with the cooked lentils and roasted vegetables. Drizzle with the creamy tahini dressing and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and parsley. Serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure perfect results, use a large enough baking sheet so the vegetables are in a single layer; this allows them to caramelize rather than steam. Make sure to rinse your lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris. For the dressing, a small whisk helps achieve a perfectly emulsified and smooth texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is incredibly flexible. You can substitute the grains for farro, bulgur, or couscous if you aren't restricted to a gluten-free diet. For extra nutrients, toss in a handful of fresh leafy greens like spinach or kale. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes to the tahini dressing.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this power bowl warm to fully enjoy the roasted flavors. It pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a simple glass of sparkling water with lemon. Each serving contains approximately 420 calories, providing a complete and satisfying meal.

Save

Whether you are refueling after a workout or enjoying a quiet dinner, the Lentil Power Bowl is a delicious way to embrace plant-based nutrition. Its balance of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein makes it a reliable staple for your weekly rotation.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes, all components can be prepared in advance and stored separately for up to 4 days. Reheat the grains and lentils before assembling, and keep the dressing in a separate container until serving.

→ What other grains work well in this bowl?

Farro, bulgur, couscous, or even millet make excellent substitutions for quinoa or brown rice. Adjust cooking time according to package instructions for your chosen grain.

→ How can I add more protein?

Consider adding chickpeas, roasted tofu cubes, or hemp seeds. You can also serve with a side of seasoned tempeh or top with roasted chickpeas for extra crunch and protein.

→ Can the vegetables be changed?

Absolutely. Try butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or eggplant. The roasting method works well with most hearty vegetables that hold their shape when cooked.

→ Is the tahini dressing necessary?

The dressing ties everything together, but you can substitute with other options like lemon-herb vinaigrette, cashew cream, or avocado dressing if you prefer a different flavor profile.

→ Can I use canned lentils instead?

Yes, rinse and drain 2 cans of lentils and skip the cooking step. Warm them slightly before serving or use at room temperature.