Quinoa power bowls are like a delicious hug for your body! They’re the perfect blend of nutrition and flavor, and trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked. The star of the show here is the maple chipotle dressing, which adds a sweet and smoky kick that elevates the roasted Brussels sprouts and butternut squash to a whole new level. I love making this dish when I want something hearty yet healthy, and it fits perfectly into my busy lifestyle. Plus, it’s so satisfying to know I’m fueling my body with wholesome ingredients. You’re going to love how vibrant and tasty this bowl is!
Ingredients List
Let’s gather everything we need for these scrumptious quinoa power bowls! Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll want to have on hand:
- 1 cup quinoa: Rinse it well under cold water to remove the natural coating, which can taste bitter.
- 2 cups water: This will help cook the quinoa to fluffy perfection.
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts: Make sure to halve them for even roasting and that delightful caramelization.
- 1 pound butternut squash: Peel and cube it into bite-sized pieces for a sweet, tender addition.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This will coat our veggies and help them roast beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup: Choose pure maple syrup for that rich sweetness!
- 1 tablespoon chipotle sauce: This gives the dressing that smoky heat we love. Adjust to your spice preference!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy; season to enhance all those wonderful flavors!
- Fresh herbs for garnish: I love using cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
With these ingredients prepped, you’re well on your way to creating a vibrant and nourishing bowl! Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare quinoa power bowls maple chipotle brussels squash
Alright, let’s bring this bowl to life! I’m going to walk you through the steps to make your quinoa power bowls packed with flavor and nutrition.
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial because a hot oven gives your Brussels sprouts and butternut squash that perfect crispy texture and caramelization. You want them to roast, not just warm up!
Step 2 – Rinse and Cook Quinoa
Next, rinse your quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. This helps wash away the bitter saponins. Then, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring it to a rolling boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff it with a fork once it’s done—so satisfying!
Step 3 – Prepare Vegetables
Now, while the quinoa is cooking, let’s prep our veggies. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts and cubed butternut squash in a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. You want every piece to be coated evenly—this is what makes them so delicious when roasted!
Step 4 – Roast the Vegetables
Spread the seasoned vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly and get that nice golden brown color. Pop them in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Give them a stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and beautifully caramelized!
Step 5 – Make the Dressing
While everything’s roasting, let’s whip up that irresistible dressing! In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of chipotle sauce. The sweet and smoky combo is just heavenly! Adjust the chipotle sauce according to your spice level—go bold or keep it mellow!
Step 6 – Combine and Serve
Once the quinoa and veggies are ready, it’s assembly time! In a large bowl, combine the fluffy quinoa with the roasted vegetables. Drizzle that delicious maple chipotle dressing over the top and give it a gentle toss to mix everything together. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for that pop of freshness. And there you go—your beautiful quinoa power bowl is ready to enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a nourishing meal ready in no time!
- Nutritious ingredients: Packed with protein-rich quinoa, fiber-filled Brussels sprouts, and vitamin-rich butternut squash, this bowl is a powerhouse of nutrition.
- Flavorful taste: The sweet and smoky maple chipotle dressing takes the taste to a whole new level, making every bite a delight!
- Great for meal prep: This recipe is perfect for prepping ahead of time; just store leftovers in the fridge and enjoy throughout the week!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail these quinoa power bowls! Here are some of my favorite tips to achieve the best results:
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Always rinse your quinoa before cooking! This simple step removes any bitterness and enhances its nutty flavor.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables! Sweet potatoes, carrots, or even kale can make fantastic additions. Just keep the cooking times in mind!
- Adjust the Dressing: If you like a bit more heat, add extra chipotle sauce to the dressing. For a sweeter kick, a splash more maple syrup works wonders!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spread your veggies out in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps them roast instead of steam, giving you that nice, crispy texture.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them perfect for meal prep. Just store the dressing separately to keep everything fresh!
- Experiment with Toppings: Top your bowl with nuts, seeds, or avocado for added crunch and creaminess. Fresh herbs like cilantro or dill add brightness and flavor!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a delicious and satisfying quinoa power bowl that you’ll want to make again and again!
Nutritional Information
Let’s take a look at the goodness packed into these quinoa power bowls! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving, which is about one bowl:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Sugar: 5g
These values are estimates based on typical ingredient usage and can vary depending on brands and specific measurements. But one thing’s for sure—this bowl is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to fuel your body with wholesome nutrients!
FAQ Section
Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
Absolutely! If quinoa isn’t your thing, you can use farro, brown rice, or even couscous. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions for the best results.
What can I substitute for Brussels sprouts?
If Brussels sprouts aren’t your favorite, feel free to swap in broccoli, cauliflower, or even green beans. Just cut them into similar sizes for even roasting!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you crave more heat, simply add extra chipotle sauce to the dressing or toss in some red pepper flakes with your veggies before roasting. You can always adjust the spice level to suit your taste!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or enjoy them cold as a salad—so versatile!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the quinoa and roast the veggies in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your quinoa power bowls properly will ensure they stay fresh and delicious. First, let everything cool down to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your veggies soggy.
Transfer your quinoa and roasted vegetables into an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I love using glass containers since they’re easy to stack and don’t hold onto odors!
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in the microwave. Just pop them in for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If you want to keep that crispy texture, you can also reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the mixture on a baking sheet, and roast for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
And don’t forget to drizzle on some extra maple chipotle dressing before serving for that added flavor punch! Enjoy your delicious quinoa power bowls even on the go!
For more information on the health benefits of quinoa, check out this Healthline article.
To learn more about the nutritional value of Brussels sprouts, visit Healthline.
For tips on how to cook butternut squash, you can refer to this EatingWell guide.
Print
Quinoa Power Bowls: 5-Star Maple Chipotle Delight!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A nutritious and flavorful quinoa power bowl featuring roasted Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and a maple chipotle dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 pound butternut squash, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chipotle sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse quinoa under cold water and combine with water in a pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Toss Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix maple syrup and chipotle sauce.
- Once quinoa and vegetables are cooked, combine everything in a bowl.
- Drizzle with maple chipotle sauce and garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
- This bowl can be customized with your favorite toppings.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting and boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: quinoa power bowls, maple chipotle, Brussels sprouts, butternut squash
