Tahini-Glazed Roasted Vegetables with Quinoa

This light yet satisfying dinner features roasted vegetables drizzled with a rich tahini glaze, served over fluffy quinoa. It’s packed with nutrients, plant-based protein, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome and flavourful meal.

Ingredients (Serves 2):

For the Vegetables:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 courgette, sliced
• 1 red onion, quartered
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tahini Glaze:

• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)

For the Quinoa:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable stock
• Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Lemon wedges

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Quinoa:
   • Rinse quinoa under cold water. Combine quinoa, water (or vegetable stock), and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Roast the Vegetables:
   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
   • Toss the sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, courgette, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
   • Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelised.
3. Make the Tahini Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup (or honey), soy sauce (or tamari), minced garlic, and water. Adjust the water for a smooth, pourable consistency.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Divide the quinoa between two bowls. Top with the roasted vegetables.
   • Drizzle generously with the tahini glaze.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley, toasted sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 13 g
• Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Vitamin A: 150% DV
• Vitamin C: 80% DV
• Iron: 20% DV
• Calcium: 12% DV

This dish is perfect for a healthy dinner, offering a balanced mix of protein, fibre, and essential nutrients. The tahini glaze adds a creamy, nutty richness that ties everything together beautifully.