Roasted Sweet Potato & Quinoa Power Bowl
This isn't just any salad; it's a hearty, flavorful power bowl designed to fuel your day! Imagine warm, roasted sweet potatoes, caramelized shallots, and crispy chickpeas, all infused with the aromatic charm of fresh rosemary. Now, picture these delightful ingredients nestled on a bed of fluffy quinoa and topped with crunchy, maple-glazed walnuts. It's a symphony of textures and tastes that’s both comforting and incredibly nutritious.
A Sheet Pan Sensation
This recipe is all about simplicity and minimal cleanup. Everything is roasted on a single sheet pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The magic happens in the oven as the sweet potatoes soften, the shallots become sweet and tender, and the chickpeas develop a delightful crispiness.
Ingredients for Deliciousness
- Sweet Potatoes: The base of our bowl, providing sweetness and essential vitamins.
- Shallots: Adding a gentle, sweet oniony flavor that complements the sweet potatoes.
- Chickpeas: Offering a protein boost and delightful crispness.
- Fresh Rosemary: Infusing the dish with an herbaceous fragrance.
- Maple Walnuts: Providing crunch, healthy fats, and a touch of sweetness.
- Quinoa: A complete protein and perfect base for our bowl.
- Optional Extras: Feel free to add greens like kale or spinach, a fried or soft boiled egg, goat cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a flavorful dressing of your choice. I highly recommend a honey mustard dressing!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Dice your sweet potatoes and roughly chop your shallots.
- Roast: Spread the sweet potatoes, shallots, and rosemary on a sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Roast for 20 minutes.
- Add Chickpeas: Add the chickpeas to the pan and continue roasting for another 20 minutes.
- Maple Walnuts: Toss walnuts with maple syrup and a little salt. Add to the pan and roast for 5 minutes.
- Assemble: Remove the rosemary stems. Serve the roasted mixture over cooked quinoa and greens. Top with your favorite dressing and extras.
Why This Bowl Rocks
- Versatile: Enjoy it warm or cold, as a meal or side.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings and dressings.
- Healthy: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for preparing lunches for the week.
- Walnuts A great source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Serving Suggestions
- Dress it up: A honey mustard dressing is a match made in heaven, but a lemony herb dressing or even just olive oil and lemon work wonderfully as well.
- Protein Boost: Add a fried or soft boiled egg, roasted chicken, or a scoop of lentils.
- Cheesy Goodness: A sprinkle of goat cheese adds a tangy creamy element.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes brings the heat.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Sweet Potato & Quinoa Power Bowl is a simple, delicious, and healthy way to add more flavor and nutrition to your day. It's the perfect dish to transition into sweater weather, and it’s sure to become a new favorite in your home. Enjoy!