Ingredients:

  • 1 medium butternut squash (approx. 2 lbs / 900g), peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (5ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (2.5ml)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 bunch kale (approx. 8 oz / 225g), stems removed, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth (60ml)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed (190g)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (475ml)
  • 3 tablespoons tahini (45ml)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (30ml)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30ml)
  • 1-2 tablespoons water (15-30ml), to thin
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (1.25ml)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (40g), toasted
  • Optional: Dried cranberries
  • Optional: Feta cheese crumbles

Instructions:

  1. Roast the Butternut Squash: Toss the cubed squash with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
  2. Cook the Quinoa: Combine rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
  3. Sauté the Kale: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped kale, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until kale is tender and wilted.
  4. Make the Maple-Tahini Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, ground ginger, and water (as needed to thin) until smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste.
  5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked quinoa, roasted butternut squash, and sautéed kale evenly among four bowls. Drizzle generously with maple-tahini dressing. Sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries (if using), and feta cheese (if using).
  6. Serve Immediately: Enjoy this nutritious and comforting Autumnal Glow Bowl warm.