Name: ea Grain Bowl with Creamy Tahini Drizzle Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup butternut squash, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained and rinsed); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup cooked quinoa, couscous, or brown rice; 3 tablespoons tahini; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey; 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro; 1 tablespoon toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a vibrant, nourishing meal that balances comforting warmth with bright, fresh flavors, this ea Grain Bowl with Creamy Tahini Drizzle is going to become your next go-to favorite. It brings together golden roasted vegetables and spiced chickpeas atop a bed of fluffy grains, all topped with a luscious, tangy tahini dressing that’s simply irresistible. Every bite offers a beautiful harmony of textures and tastes that will satisfy your hunger and keep you glowing with health.

ea Grain Bowl with Creamy Tahini Drizzle Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and thoughtful ingredient choices, each playing a key role in flavor, texture, and color. From the earthy warmth of spices to the creamy, nutty tahini drizzle, every component elevates the whole bowl into something truly special.

Butternut squash: Adds sweet, tender chunks with a stunning golden hue.
Zucchini: Provides a subtle freshness and soft texture after roasting.
Red bell pepper: Brings vibrant color and a mild, sweet crunch.
Cooked chickpeas: Offer hearty protein and a satisfying bite.
Olive oil: Helps everything roast beautifully, adding richness.
Turmeric, smoked paprika, cumin: Create a warm, smoky spice blend that infuses the veggies and chickpeas.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all flavors.
Grain base (quinoa, couscous, or brown rice): Acts as a nutty, wholesome foundation for the bowl.
Tahini: The star ingredient in the drizzle, lending creamy, nutty depth.
Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, zesty brightness to the dressing.
Maple syrup or honey: Introduces a hint of sweetness that tones down the acidity.
Fresh parsley or cilantro: Offers a pop of herbal freshness as garnish.
Toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds: Provide delightful crunch and nutty flavor on top.

How to Make ea Grain Bowl with Creamy Tahini Drizzle

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables and Chickpeas

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the diced butternut squash, sliced zucchini, red bell pepper, and chickpeas with olive oil and the blend of turmeric, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Spread everything out evenly on a baking sheet so the veggies can roast to golden perfection. After about 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, you’ll notice those gorgeous caramelized edges that bring out the deepest flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Grain Base

While the veggies roast, cook your choice of quinoa, couscous, or brown rice. Each grain lends its own unique texture and flavor, whether it’s the light fluffiness of quinoa, the subtle nuttiness of couscous, or the hearty chew of brown rice. Once cooked, set the grains aside to cool slightly while you make the dressing.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Creamy Tahini Drizzle

In a small bowl, combine tahini, freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup (or honey), and salt. Whisk everything together and gradually add water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. This creamy tahini drizzle is the magic touch that brings silky, tangy creaminess to the dish without overpowering the roasted vegetables.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowl

To build your ea Grain Bowl with Creamy Tahini Drizzle, start by layering a generous serving of your chosen grains at the bottom of each bowl. Next, pile on the warm, roasted vegetables and chickpeas. Finish by drizzling the luscious tahini sauce over the top, allowing it to cascade over the veggies and grains in beautiful swirls.

How to Serve ea Grain Bowl with Creamy Tahini Drizzle

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over each bowl for a fragrant, herbal lift that brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise. Toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds add a satisfying crunch and a toasty note that rounds out the creamy, soft textures.

Side Dishes

This grain bowl is so wholesome and filling it’s often a meal in itself. However, if you want to serve something alongside, light, refreshing salads with crisp greens or a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon would be perfect complements. A side of warm, crusty bread can also be a welcome addition to scoop up every last bit of tahini drizzle.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting presentation, try arranging each component in separate sections on the plate before drizzling the tahini sauce artfully across the top. Layered mason jar salads or portable containers make this bowl ideal for meal prep or taking lunch on the go, adding convenience without compromising on flavor or style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover ea Grain Bowl with Creamy Tahini Drizzle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tahini dressing separate if possible to maintain its creamy texture and avoid sogginess in the grains or vegetables.

Freezing

While the roasted vegetables and chickpeas freeze well, the tahini drizzle is best added fresh. Freeze the grain and roasted veggie portion in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding the dressing and garnishes.

Reheating

Reheat the grain and vegetable mix gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add the creamy tahini drizzle afterward to keep its silky texture intact and avoid breaking or clumping.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of butternut squash and zucchini?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorites like sweet potatoes, carrots, or eggplant. Just keep them cut to a similar size for even roasting.

Is this grain bowl vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free grains like quinoa or brown rice. It’s a perfect nutritious option for various dietary needs.

How can I make the tahini drizzle less thick?

Simply add more water, one tablespoon at a time, while whisking until you reach your desired pourable consistency. Fresh lemon juice can also brighten the flavor if it feels too dense.

Can I prepare this dish ahead for meal prep?

Definitely. Roast the veggies and cook the grains ahead of time, store separately, and add the tahini drizzle just before eating for maximum freshness.

What grain is best for this bowl?

All options work wonderfully! Quinoa gives a fluffy, slightly nutty texture, couscous is light and fluffy, and brown rice offers a heartier chew. Choose based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the ea Grain Bowl with Creamy Tahini Drizzle that makes healthy eating feel indulgent and joyful. This recipe offers you a simple yet elegant meal packed with flavor, color, and nourishment that you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Go ahead and make it your own — your taste buds will thank you!

ea Grain Bowl with Creamy Tahini Drizzle Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 18 reviews

This Golden Roasted Vegetable & Chickpea Grain Bowl is a vibrant and wholesome meal featuring tender roasted butternut squash, zucchini, red bell pepper, and spiced chickpeas served over a bed of quinoa, couscous, or brown rice. It’s topped with a creamy, tangy tahini drizzle and garnished with fresh herbs and toasted seeds for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for a nutritious lunch or dinner, this plant-based bowl is packed with color, flavor, and protein.

Author: Douaa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 2 to 3 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Vegan

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) to prepare for roasting the vegetables and chickpeas.
Prepare Vegetables & Chickpeas: In a large bowl, combine diced butternut squash, sliced zucchini, sliced red bell pepper, and cooked chickpeas. Toss them with olive oil, turmeric, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper until everything is evenly coated with the spices and oil.
Roast the Mixture: Spread the seasoned vegetables and chickpeas evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking and that the vegetables become tender and lightly golden.
Cook Grain Base: While the vegetables roast, prepare your choice of grain (quinoa, couscous, or brown rice) according to package instructions. Set aside once cooked.
Make Tahini Drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup or honey, salt, and 2 to 3 tablespoons of water. Adjust water to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency suitable for drizzling.
Assemble the Bowl: Place a generous portion of your cooked grain at the base of each bowl. Top with the golden roasted vegetables and chickpeas.
Add Sauce & Garnish: Drizzle the creamy tahini sauce generously over the bowl. Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or cilantro and toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds on top for added crunch and freshness.

Notes

You can substitute chickpeas with other legumes like white beans or lentils if preferred.
Adjust the spices to your taste; add chili powder or cayenne if you enjoy heat.
Use maple syrup for a vegan option or honey if not strictly vegan.
To save time, use pre-cooked grains or canned chickpeas.
Store leftover roasted vegetables and chickpeas separately from the grains and sauce for best freshness.