Why We Love Tahini

Creamy, nutty tahini isn't just tasty, it's a powerhouse for women's wellness. Made from ground sesame seeds, it's rich in healthy fats, plant-based protein and essential minerals like zinc, magnesium and calcium. These nutrients are key players in maintaining skin elasticity, supporting collagen production and keeping your complexion supple and radiant.

Tahini is also naturally rich in lignans, which have been shown to help support hormone balance, especially during perimenopause and menopause. The magnesium content aids in calming the nervous system, which can soothe stress-related skin flare-ups and help ease hormonal tension. It's the perfect companion to your wellness routine and a delicious way to embrace your "beauty from within" journey.

Quinoa Bowl with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

Prep time: 20 minutes | Serving size: 2  

Ingredients: 

For the bowl:

• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice 
• 1/2 cup edamame beans or chickpeas (rinsed and drained)   
• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 roasted sweet potato, cubed 
• 1/2 cup baby spinach or rockets
• 1/4 cup shredded red cabbage 
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds 
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  

For the dressing:

• 2 tablespoons tahini  
• Juice of 1/2 lemon    
• 1 to 2 tablespoons warm water (start with 1 tablespoon and add more as needed)
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey  
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced or grated 
• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste  
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

1. Whisk all dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with a splash of warm water as needed. 

2. In a large serving bowl, arrange the quinoa, edamame, avocado, sweet potato, baby spinach, red cabbage and pumpkin seeds.

3. Drizzle generously with the lemon-tahini dressing. Top with the chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Hints & Tips

Leftovers - Simply store any leftover ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. The grains and veggies keep beautifully, and the flavours often deepen overnight.

Make Ahead - For those who love to meal prep, this tahini dressing is a dream. Simple double or triple the recipe and store it in a glass jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. If it thickens over time, just stir in a splash of warm water or lemon juice to bring it back to life. Drizzle it over roasted veg, wraps or even use it as a dip for crunchy cucumber and carrot sticks; it's your fridge's new favourite staple.

Extra toppings - Elevate your bowl with an array of vibrant, flavourful toppings that bring texture, depth and even more nourishment, i.e., sliced cucumber, kimchi, pickled ginger, seaweed flakes or nori strips. 

Protein Add-Ons - To turn this into a more satisfying main or post-walk recovery bowl, simply add a protein of your choice, such as diced cooked salmon (poached or roasted with a splash of tamari or sesame oil), marinated tofu or tempeh or soft-boiled egg (jammy-centred, sprinkled with sesame seeds).