Earth Kitchen: 2 Green Recipes

Healthy Diet, Healthy Planet

Chickpea & Sweet Potato Bowl with Lemon Tahini Dressing

Serves: 2 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min

Ingredients

• 1 large sweet potato, cubed

• 1 can (15 oz) organic chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa

• 2 cups seasonal leafy greens (kale, spinach, arugula)

• ½ avocado, sliced (optional)

For the Lemon Tahini Dressing:

• 3 tbsp tahini

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp maple syrup or honey

• 1 small garlic clove, minced

• 2–4 tbsp water (to thin)

Instructions

1. Roast the Veggies: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes and chickpeas in olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway.

2. Make the Dressing: Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, maple syrup, and water until smooth and pourable.

3. Assemble the Bowl: Divide rice or quinoa between two bowls. Top with greens, roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and avocado. Drizzle with dressing.

🌍 Why Sustainable Eating Matters

Sustainable eating minimizes environmental impact by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving water, and preserving biodiversity. This recipe is:

• Plant-based, lowering emissions from livestock agriculture

• Seasonal and local, supporting regional farmers and reducing transport

• Low-waste, using whole ingredients with minimal packaging

• Nutrient-dense, promoting health without excess resource use

Switching just one meat-based meal per week to a plant-forward one can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

No-Bake Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Chill Time: 30 min

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados

• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• ¼ cup maple syrup (or agave)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• 2–4 tbsp plant-based milk (as needed for texture)

Optional toppings:

• Seasonal berries

• Shaved dark chocolate

• Chopped nuts or coconut flakes

Instructions

1. Blend: Scoop avocado flesh into a food processor. Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt.

2. Adjust Texture: Blend until smooth. Add milk a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired creaminess.

3. Chill & Serve: Spoon into small jars or cups. Chill for at least 30 minutes. Top with your choice of seasonal, low-waste garnishes.

🌿 Why It’s Sustainable

• No-bake = no extra energy use.

• Plant-based fats = no dairy, fewer emissions.

• Avocados (when used in moderation and sourced responsibly) have a lower carbon footprint than cream or butter-based desserts.

• Seasonal toppings reduce transport emissions and support biodiversity.