Looking for a delicious way to boost your energy and nourish your body? Dive into the vibrant world of our Sweet Potato Arugula and Apple Quinoa Power Bowl! This colorful dish isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's packed with wholesome ingredients that deliver a punch of flavor and nutrition in every bite. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or seeking a quick dinner option, this recipe promises to satisfy your cravings while keeping your health goals on track. Ready to transform your meals into a powerhouse of goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Healthy
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Quinoa
- Sweet potatoes
- Arugula
- Apple
- Walnuts
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your sweet potatoes roast perfectly.
- While the oven is heating, rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps to remove any bitterness from the quinoa.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the sweet potatoes. Peel and dice 2 medium sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- While the sweet potatoes are roasting, chop 1 cup of walnuts into smaller pieces and toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Next, wash and dry 4 cups of arugula. Set it aside for assembly.
- Core and thinly slice 1 large apple. You can choose your favorite variety, such as Fuji or Granny Smith, for a mix of sweetness and tartness.
- Once the quinoa and sweet potatoes are ready, it's time to assemble the power bowls. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, arugula, sliced apple, and toasted walnuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Drizzle this dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Season the power bowls with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for a healthy meal prep option.
Tips
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. This simple step will enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes: For even cooking, make sure to cut your sweet potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes. Flipping them halfway through roasting will help achieve that delightful caramelization.
- Toast Those Walnuts: Toasting walnuts not only enhances their flavor but also adds a satisfying crunch to your power bowl. Keep an eye on them as they can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
- Mix and Match Apples: Experiment with different apple varieties to find the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness that suits your palate. Fuji apples add sweetness, while Granny Smith brings a refreshing tartness.
- Dressing It Up: For an extra zing, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of feta cheese to your bowl before serving. It adds a refreshing twist and elevates the overall flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This power bowl can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to keep everything fresh and crisp!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
