Introduction
These Spicy Grilled Veggie Quinoa Bowls with Sriracha Tahini Dressing are a perfect blend of hearty, smoky, and spicy flavors. The charred goodness from the grilled vegetables pairs beautifully with fluffy quinoa and the creamy, spicy kick from the Sriracha tahini dressing. To top it all off, sliced avocado adds a cool, buttery texture, while sesame seeds provide a delightful crunch. This bowl is ideal for meal prep, quick lunches, or weeknight dinners, offering plant-based nutrition that’s filling and delicious. It’s not only vibrant and healthy but also easy to customize with your favorite grilled vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Sriracha Tahini Dressing:
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 2-3 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
- Pinch of salt
Toppings:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (black or white)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
- In a saucepan, combine quinoa, water or vegetable broth, and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- In a bowl, toss the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
Step 3: Grill the Vegetables
- Place the vegetables on the grill in a single layer.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until they have a nice char and are tender.
- Remove from the grill and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sriracha Tahini Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, Sriracha, lemon juice, maple syrup (or honey), and salt.
- Gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Taste and adjust spice levels as desired.
Step 5: Assemble the Quinoa Bowls
- Start with a base of cooked quinoa in each bowl.
- Add the grilled vegetables on top.
- Drizzle generously with the Sriracha tahini dressing.
Step 6: Add the Toppings
- Top each bowl with sliced avocado.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal.
COOKING Note
- If you don’t have a grill, use a stovetop grill pan or roast the vegetables in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Sriracha to the dressing.
- For meal prep, store the quinoa, vegetables, and dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to maintain texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of edamame or roasted chickpeas for added protein.
- Enjoy with a glass of iced green tea or lemon water for a refreshing finish.
- This bowl also pairs well with pita bread or hummus on the side.
Tips
- Add tofu or tempeh for a protein boost. Simply grill or pan-fry with the vegetables.
- Swap the quinoa for brown rice or farro if you prefer.
- Use any leftover vegetables in a wrap or sandwich for the next day’s meal.
- For extra crunch, add crushed peanuts or pumpkin seeds along with the sesame seeds.
- Store any leftover dressing in the fridge for up to 5 days—it also works well on salads or as a dip for veggies.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 400
Protein: 12 g
Sodium: 380 mg
Conclusion
These Spicy Grilled Veggie Quinoa Bowls with Sriracha Tahini Dressing are packed with bold flavors and plenty of nutritious ingredients. The grilled vegetables bring a smoky depth, while the quinoa adds a hearty base. The star of the dish is the Sriracha tahini dressing, offering just the right amount of heat and creaminess. Topped with avocado slices and sesame seeds, these bowls are perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, flavorful meal with a spicy kick. Whether for meal prep, a quick lunch, or dinner, these quinoa bowls will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
PrintSpicy Grilled Veggie Quinoa Bowls with Sriracha Tahini Dressing
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Grilled Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Sriracha Tahini Dressing:
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 2–3 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
- Pinch of salt
Toppings:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (black or white)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
- In a saucepan, combine quinoa, water or vegetable broth, and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- In a bowl, toss the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
Step 3: Grill the Vegetables
- Place the vegetables on the grill in a single layer.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until they have a nice char and are tender.
- Remove from the grill and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sriracha Tahini Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, Sriracha, lemon juice, maple syrup (or honey), and salt.
- Gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Taste and adjust spice levels as desired.
Step 5: Assemble the Quinoa Bowls
- Start with a base of cooked quinoa in each bowl.
- Add the grilled vegetables on top.
- Drizzle generously with the Sriracha tahini dressing.
Step 6: Add the Toppings
- Top each bowl with sliced avocado.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Protein: 12g