A vibrant and healthy bowl filled with roasted chickpeas, mixed vegetables, fluffy quinoa, and a delicious lemon-tahini dressing, perfect for a budget-friendly dinner.
Servings 4servings
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Healthy, Mediterranean
Ingredients
For the roasted vegetables and chickpeas
1can (15 oz)chickpeas, drained and rinsedplant-based protein and fiber to keep you full
1mediumsweet potato, diced (about 2 cups)budget-friendly source of vitamin A and complex carbs
1mediumzucchini, slicedadds hydration and extra veggies with few calories
1smallred onion, slicedadds savory-sweet depth and antioxidants
2tbspolive oilhealthy fats help roast vegetables beautifully
1tspsmoked paprikawarm, savory flavor with a hint of smokiness
1/2tspground cuminearthy, aromatic spice that pairs well with chickpeas
to tastesalt and black pepperenhances all flavors
For the quinoa and dressing
1cupquinoa (dry)complete protein and quick-cooking base
2tbsptahinicreamy, nutty base for dressing and adds calcium
1clovegarlic, mincedboosts flavor and supports immunity
2tbspchopped fresh parsley or cilantrofreshness and vitamin K
1–2tbspwarm waterto thin dressing as needed
Optional toppings
1handfulbaby spinachextra greens
to tastetoasted sesame seedsextra texture
1dollopplain yogurtcreaminess
Method
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
In a medium bowl, toss the diced sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread on one side of the baking sheet.
In the same bowl, toss the zucchini, red pepper, and red onion with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Add to the baking sheet in a single layer.
On a separate small area of the baking sheet (or a second sheet), spread the rinsed chickpeas, pat them dry with a paper towel, and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon cumin, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of oil.
Cooking
Roast everything together for about 20–25 minutes, until the vegetables and chickpeas are golden and tender (edges caramelized).
While the vegetables roast, rinse the quinoa in a colander under cold water. Combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water (or low-sodium broth) in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Dressing and Assembly
Prepare the lemon-tahini dressing: whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, 1–2 tablespoons warm water, a pinch of salt, and a little black pepper until creamy and smooth.
Taste and adjust acidity or salt as needed.
To assemble, divide quinoa among bowls, top with roasted vegetables and chickpeas, drizzle with lemon-tahini dressing, and sprinkle chopped parsley.
Add optional toppings like baby spinach, sesame seeds, or yogurt if using.
Cut vegetables to similar sizes for even roasting. Pat chickpeas dry before roasting to ensure crispiness. Make extra quinoa and chickpeas for quick dinners throughout the week.