Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa

1. Start by cooking the quinoa. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water.
3. Bring the water to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
4. Once done, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside.

Step 2: Roast the Cauliflower and Apples

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large baking sheet, toss the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cumin (if using).
3. Spread the cauliflower in an even layer and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy on the edges.
4. On a separate baking sheet, arrange the apple wedges. Drizzle with a little olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
5. Roast the apples in the same oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Make the Maple Mustard Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more maple syrup or vinegar if necessary.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

1. In a large serving bowl, add a generous portion of cooked quinoa as the base.
2. Layer the roasted cauliflower and apples on top of the quinoa.
3. Drizzle the bowl generously with the maple mustard dressing, ensuring each ingredient gets a touch of that tangy, sweet flavor.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. To add texture and extra flavor, sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts on top of the bowl.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
3. Optionally, add pomegranate seeds for an extra layer of sweetness and tartness that pairs beautifully with the roasted vegetables and apples.

COOKING Notes:

• Cauliflower: The cauliflower should be roasted until golden-brown, which adds a nice crispy texture to the bowl. Feel free to experiment with spices such as turmeric or curry powder if you want to add some more warmth and complexity to the dish.
• Apples: Choose apples that hold up well to roasting, like Granny Smith, which provide a tart contrast, or Honeycrisp for a sweeter note. Roasting the apples intensifies their flavor and gives them a caramelized finish.
• Dressing: The maple mustard dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good shake or whisk before using.