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Fresh Kale and Quinoa Power Bowl with Lemon Tahini Dressing

fresh kale and quinoa power bowl - featured image

A quick, healthy, and satisfying power bowl featuring massaged kale, fluffy quinoa, and a bright lemon tahini dressing. Perfect for a nourishing lunch or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed (170g)
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth (475ml)
  • 4 cups fresh kale, ribs removed and chopped (about 120g)
  • 1/4 cup tahini (60ml)
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp or 45ml)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (30ml)
  • 23 tbsp water (30-45ml), to thin the dressing
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (30g)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1 small avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots or cherry tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh sieve.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and 2 cups water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and let quinoa sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and transfer to a large bowl to cool slightly.
  4. Wash and dry 4 cups kale. Strip leaves from thick ribs and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Place kale in a large bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and massage the kale by rubbing and squeezing the leaves with your hands for 2-3 minutes until softened and darkened.
  6. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 1/4 cup tahini, juice of 1 lemon, 1 minced garlic clove, and 2 tbsp olive oil.
  7. Slowly add 2-3 tbsp water while whisking to reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Add the fluffed quinoa to the massaged kale. Pour the lemon tahini dressing over and toss gently to combine.
  9. Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds, add sliced avocado, shredded carrots or cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta if using. Toss lightly or serve with toppings arranged on top.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with more salt or lemon juice before serving.

Notes

Massage kale well to soften and reduce bitterness. Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove saponin coating. Adjust dressing thickness by adding water gradually. Add avocado fresh to avoid browning. Quinoa texture varies by brand; add cooking time if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale, quinoa, power bowl, lemon tahini dressing, healthy lunch, vegetarian, gluten-free, easy recipe, meal prep