Rainbow Buddha Bowl with Tahini Dressing

• 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 avocado sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

1. 1

   Create the Tahini Dressing

   In a small mixing bowl or jar, combine the tahini, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, water, and minced garlic. Whisk vigorously or shake until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. The tahini will initially seize up and become thick when you add the liquid - this is normal. Keep whisking, and it will transform into a beautiful, pourable dressing. If it's still too thick, add water one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasonings - more lemon for brightness, more maple for sweetness, or a pinch of salt if needed.

2. 2

   Prepare Your Fresh Vegetables

   Shred the purple cabbage into fine ribbons using a sharp knife or mandoline - the finer the shred, the more tender it will be to eat. Peel and shred the carrot using a box grater or julienne peeler for beautiful, delicate strands. Dice the cucumber into bite-sized cubes and halve the cherry tomatoes. Just before serving, slice the avocado to prevent browning. Having all your vegetables prepped and ready makes assembly quick and enjoyable.

3. 3

   Warm the Chickpeas

   While you can certainly use chickpeas straight from the can at room temperature, warming them elevates the entire bowl. Place the drained and rinsed chickpeas in a small pan with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and any spices you enjoy - cumin and smoked paprika work beautifully. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and slightly fragrant. Alternatively, leave them cold for a refreshing, no-cook option.

4. 4

   Assemble Your Bowls

   Divide the cooked quinoa or brown rice between two large, shallow serving bowls - the wide surface area allows for beautiful ingredient arrangement. Arrange the vegetables, chickpeas, and avocado in organized sections around the bowl, creating a colorful wheel of ingredients. This presentation isn't just for aesthetics; it allows each diner to customize their bites with different combinations.

5. 5

   Drizzle and Serve

   Drizzle the tahini dressing generously over each bowl in an artistic zigzag pattern. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy mixing all the components together as you eat, experiencing different flavor and texture combinations in every forkful.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (approximate values)