Name: Chipotle Tahini Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Plant-Based
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked quinoa, brown rice, or farro; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or use grilled chicken or tofu); 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt & pepper, to taste; Avocado slices; Pickled red onions; Fresh cilantro; Lime wedges; ¼ cup tahini; 1 chipotle pepper in adobo (start with ½ if you want less heat); 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the can); 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey; 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice; 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin to desired consistency); Salt, to taste

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Chipotle Tahini Bowls are a smoky, spicy, and creamy flavor explosion, perfect for lunch or dinner. Loaded with roasted vegetables, hearty grains, protein, and a rich chipotle tahini sauce, these vibrant bowls are satisfying, nutrient-packed, and totally customizable. The chipotle tahini dressing brings everything together with a bold kick and silky texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold, smoky flavor – Chipotle peppers give a delicious spicy depth.
Creamy tahini dressing – Rich, nutty, and dairy-free.
Nutrient-dense – Packed with whole grains, veggies, and protein.
Easy to prep – Perfect for meal prep or build-your-own bowl nights.
Vegan and gluten-free – Naturally plant-based and gluten-friendly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bowls:

Cooked quinoa, brown rice, or farro
Roasted sweet potatoes, cubed
Roasted cauliflower or broccoli florets
Black beans or chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Avocado, sliced
Fresh spinach, kale, or arugula
Red onion, thinly sliced
Lime wedges (for serving)

For the Chipotle Tahini Sauce:

Tahini
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
Garlic, minced
Lime juice
Maple syrup or agave
Water (to thin)
Salt

Directions

1. Roast the Veggies:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss cubed sweet potatoes and cauliflower with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika.
Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, chipotle peppers (start with one), garlic, lime juice, maple syrup, and salt.
Blend until smooth, adding water until desired consistency is reached.
Taste and adjust spice level or sweetness.

3. Assemble the Bowls:

In each bowl, start with a base of grains and greens.
Add roasted veggies, black beans, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion.
Drizzle generously with chipotle tahini sauce.
Finish with lime juice and optional herbs like cilantro.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Grilled chicken, tofu, or tempeh work great.
Grain-free option: Use cauliflower rice instead of grains.
Different veggies: Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Milder sauce: Use less chipotle or swap with smoked paprika for flavor without heat.
Crunchy toppings: Add pumpkin seeds, crispy chickpeas, or tortilla strips.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep components separate for best texture. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm the grains and roasted veggies separately. Add fresh toppings and sauce just before serving.
Sauce storage: Store the chipotle tahini sauce in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.

FAQs

Is tahini spicy?

No, tahini is made from sesame seeds and has a nutty, slightly bitter taste. The heat comes from the chipotle peppers.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! It stores well for up to a week in the fridge.

What if I don’t have tahini?

You can substitute with almond butter or sunflower seed butter, though the flavor will change slightly.

Are chipotle peppers very spicy?

They’re smoky and moderately spicy. Start with one and adjust to your taste.

Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, freeze in an ice cube tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Fresh is best for roasting, but canned can work in a pinch—just sauté to add flavor.

What’s the best grain to use?

Quinoa is light and protein-rich, but brown rice and farro are great hearty alternatives.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan and can easily be made gluten-free.

How do I make the sauce less thick?

Add water or lime juice a little at a time until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Can I use this sauce on other dishes?

Absolutely! It’s great on tacos, grain bowls, roasted veggies, or as a dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Chipotle Tahini Bowls are a bold, wholesome, and satisfying way to enjoy a healthy, plant-based meal. With smoky roasted vegetables, hearty grains, and a creamy-spicy sauce, every bite is full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this bowl is a go-to option for nourishing, crave-worthy meals.