Nutrient Absorption Booster Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 cup baby spinach leaves
• ½ cup cooked quinoa (soaked for 8 hours before cooking)
• ¼ cup soaked almonds, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
• ¼ avocado, sliced
• ⅓ cup marinated tofu cubes (recipe below)
• ½ cup roasted sweet potato cubes
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

For the Marinated Tofu:

• 4 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 1 tablespoon tamari or coconut aminos
• ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon date paste
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

For the Lemon-Turmeric Dressing:

• Juice of ½ lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Small pinch of sea salt
• ½ teaspoon date paste
• 1 small garlic clove, minced

Instructions:

1. Prepare the quinoa by soaking it overnight, then cooking according to package directions. This deactivates phytic acid that can block mineral absorption.
2. Prepare the marinated tofu: Press tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess water. Cut into ½-inch cubes. Mix tamari, sesame oil, date paste, garlic powder, and ginger in a shallow dish. Add tofu cubes and marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to overnight). Sprinkle with sesame seeds and either bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or pan-fry until golden brown.
3. Make the dressing by whisking together all dressing ingredients. The black pepper activates turmeric's curcumin, while the lemon juice's vitamin C enhances iron absorption from the spinach.
4. Arrange the spinach in a bowl and top with the cooked quinoa, soaked almonds, pumpkin seeds, avocado, marinated tofu, and sweet potato.
5. Drizzle with the lemon-turmeric dressing just before eating.
6. Enjoy immediately, ideally away from coffee or tea, which can inhibit mineral absorption. Remember to chew thoroughly to begin the digestive process and maximize nutrient extraction! 

Nutritional Breakdown:

*Values are approximate and based on standard ingredient nutritional data. Percentages based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

All linked products have been personally selected by a member of the Goodness Lover team. If you purchase any of these items, Goodness Lover may earn a commission.