Oven Roasted Chickpea Shawarma

This Oven Roasted Chickpea Shawarma is a healthy, flavorful dish packed with protein and rich in vibrant spices. The roasted chickpeas, cauliflower, and vegetables are seasoned with a blend of cumin, paprika, cardamom, and cinnamon, creating a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for plant-based meals. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or meal prep option. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or couscous, or stuff it into pita bread for a satisfying sandwich. Top with a drizzle of tahini sauce for extra flavor. This versatile recipe is a great choice for anyone looking for gluten-free, vegetarian, or dairy-free meal ideas.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans chickpeas, rinsed and dried
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 1 green pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cardamom
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• Tahini sauce for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with non-stick foil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, chopped onion, cauliflower florets, and green pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and add the minced garlic, salt, cumin, paprika, cardamom, crushed red pepper, and cinnamon. Toss everything well to coat evenly with the spices.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 30-35 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and the chickpeas are golden brown.
5. Once out of the oven, immediately drizzle the lemon juice over the roasted ingredients and toss to combine.
6. Serve in bowls over grains like rice or couscous, or stuff into pita bread. Top with tahini sauce if desired for added flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Oven Roasted Chickpea Shawarma recipe combines vibrant vegetables and protein-packed chickpeas, roasted to golden perfection and seasoned with aromatic spices. It’s a flavorful and filling dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a healthy, plant-based meal. Whether you serve it over grains or in a pita, it’s sure to be a hit with vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Tips:

• For extra crispiness: Ensure the chickpeas are fully dried before roasting for a crispier texture.
• Adjust the spices: If you prefer a spicier version, increase the crushed red pepper or add a dash of cayenne.
• Even roasting: Toss the mixture halfway through the cooking time to ensure an even roast on all ingredients.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Vegetables: You can substitute cauliflower with other veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots, or zucchini for variety.
• Chickpeas: If you prefer a different legume, you can try roasted lentils or even edamame.
• Tahini sauce alternative: If you’re not a fan of tahini, try serving with a yogurt-based sauce or hummus.

FAQs:

• Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can roast the chickpeas and vegetables in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and reheat before serving.
• Can I use frozen vegetables? Fresh vegetables are recommended for this recipe, but frozen vegetables will work in a pinch. Just ensure they are fully thawed and dried before roasting.

Serving:

This dish can be served as a bowl meal, over grains like quinoa, rice, or couscous, or stuffed into pita bread for a satisfying sandwich. Add a drizzle of tahini or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley to enhance the flavors.

Suggestions:

Pair this Shawarma with a fresh salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad, for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with roasted potatoes or a side of hummus for additional textures and flavors.