Spicy Peanut Chickpea & Quinoa Power Bowl

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 can canned chickpeas
• 0.5 cucumber 0.5 cucumber
• 0.5 red bell pepper
• 1 carrot 1 carrot
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 4 tbsp natural peanut butter
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp sriracha
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• 2-4 tbsp hot water
• 2 tbsp roasted peanuts
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or green onions

Instructions

1. Prepare Quinoa (Microwave Method): Rinse 1 cup dry quinoa thoroughly. In a large microwave-safe bowl with a lid (or covered tightly with a microwave-safe plate), combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups water. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, then reduce power to 50% and microwave for another 10-15 minutes, or until all water is absorbed. Let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. Alternatively (Electric Kettle Method for Quinoa): Rinse 1 cup dry quinoa. Boil 2 cups of water in an electric kettle. Place rinsed quinoa in a heat-safe bowl, pour boiling water over it. Cover tightly (e.g., with a plate) and let sit for 15-20 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork. (If using pre-cooked quinoa, simply warm it slightly in the microwave or serve at room temperature).
3. Prepare Chickpeas: Rinse and drain the canned chickpeas. You can warm them briefly in the microwave for 1-2 minutes if desired, or serve them at room temperature.
4. Chop Vegetables: Dice the cucumber and red bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces. Grate or finely dice the carrot.
5. Make Peanut Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, sriracha, and maple syrup (if using). Add 2-4 tablespoons of hot water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
6. Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked quinoa evenly between two serving bowls. Top each bowl with the baby spinach, warm chickpeas, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, and grated carrot.
7. Dress and Serve: Generously drizzle the spicy peanut sauce over each bowl. Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro or green onions, if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition (per serving)