Name: Vegan Grain Bowl (Sweet Potato & Chickpea)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; ¼ cup tahini; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 2 tablespoons water

Hey y'all! Looking for a wholesome, satisfying meal that's bursting with color and flavor? This Vegan Grain Bowl (Sweet Potato & Chickpea) is a crunchy, creamy, and downright delicious option—perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, or lazy weeknight dinners. With roasted sweet potatoes, protein-packed chickpeas, and a zesty tahini dressing, you'll want to add this one to your weekly rotation. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Vegan Grain Bowl (Sweet Potato & Chickpea)

Quick to make and great for meal prep—ideal for busy weeks.
Packed with plant-based protein and fiber for lasting fullness.
Customizable with your favorite grains, veggies, and dressings.
Sweet potatoes and chickpeas create irresistible flavors and textures.
Completely vegan, gluten-free, and naturally nutrient-rich.

Ingredients for Vegan Grain Bowl (Sweet Potato & Chickpea)

1 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice or farro)
1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups baby spinach or kale
½ cup shredded red cabbage
½ avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds

For the tahini dressing:

3 tablespoons tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice (about ½ lemon)
1 tablespoon maple syrup
2-3 tablespoons water (to thin)
1 small garlic clove, minced
Pinch of salt

Directions: How to Make Vegan Grain Bowl (Sweet Potato & Chickpea)

Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potato & Chickpeas

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toss diced sweet potato and chickpeas with 2 tablespoons olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes or until golden and crisp, turning halfway through.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

While roasting, cook your quinoa according to package instructions or use pre-cooked grains. Keep warm and fluffy.

Step 3: Make the Tahini Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and enough water to reach a creamy, pourable consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Vegan Grain Bowl (Sweet Potato & Chickpea)

Divide cooked quinoa between bowls.
Add roasted sweet potato and chickpeas, fresh spinach or kale, shredded red cabbage, avocado, and pumpkin seeds.
Drizzle generously with tahini dressing.

Notes: Tips for Perfect Vegan Grain Bowl (Sweet Potato & Chickpea)

Toss sweet potatoes well in oil for extra crispiness.
For extra flavor, try massaging your greens with a pinch of salt before adding to the bowls. Learn the benefits of massaging greens.
Prep ingredients ahead to streamline weeknight assembly.

Variations: Customize Your Vegan Grain Bowl (Sweet Potato & Chickpea)

Asian-Inspired: Swap tahini for peanut sauce and add edamame or shredded carrots.
Spicy Southwest: Add corn, black beans, and a squeeze of lime, topped with salsa.
Greek-Style: Use brown rice, Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon-oregano vinaigrette.

Required Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Instructions for Vegan Grain Bowl (Sweet Potato & Chickpea)

Store all ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat roasted sweet potato and chickpeas in the oven or microwave until hot.
Assemble bowls just before eating to keep greens crisp and fresh.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Enjoy alongside a simple vegan soup or a crusty whole grain bread.
Add a sprinkle of hemp seeds or nutritional yeast for extra protein and depth of flavor.
Serve with fresh lemon wedges for extra tang.

Pro Tips for the Best Vegan Grain Bowl (Sweet Potato & Chickpea)

Layer hot grains as the base so they gently wilt the greens, infusing more flavor. Learn more about grain bowls at Bon Appétit.
Roast extra sweet potatoes and chickpeas for meals throughout the week.
For ultra-creamy dressing, use a blender to combine all ingredients until smooth.