Roasted Chickpea & Veggie Bowl

This Roasted Chickpea & Veggie Bowl is a nutritious and flavorful dish that brings together crispy chickpeas, roasted vegetables, and a touch of feta cheese for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, dinner, or a meal-prep option, this recipe is both delicious and versatile. The combination of smoky spices and roasted veggies makes it a go-to favorite for any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup diced zucchini
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Roast the chickpeas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown, stirring halfway through.
4. While the chickpeas are roasting, toss the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini with balsamic vinegar. Spread them out on a separate baking sheet.
5. Roast the veggies in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. To assemble the bowls, divide the roasted chickpeas and veggies among serving bowls. Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 2 bowls
• Calorie Count: 250 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add Grains: Mix in quinoa, brown rice, or couscous to make the bowl more filling.
• Dairy-Free Option: Omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Different Veggies: You can swap the zucchini and bell peppers for other veggies like eggplant, broccoli, or sweet potatoes.
• Herbs and Spices: Add fresh basil, cilantro, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or a poached egg for extra protein.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store the roasted chickpeas and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the bowl in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. The chickpeas will lose some of their crispness when reheated, but the flavors will still be delicious.
• Enjoying Cold: This dish can also be enjoyed cold, making it ideal for a quick, refreshing meal straight from the fridge.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
   Yes, if using dried chickpeas, cook them first according to package instructions, then follow the recipe.
2. How do I keep the chickpeas crispy after roasting?
   Allow the chickpeas to cool completely before storing them. Store them separately from the veggies if you plan to reheat the bowl later.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, this is a great dish for meal prep. Prepare the chickpeas and veggies in advance, store them in the fridge, and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.
4. What other dressings work well with this bowl?
   You can drizzle with tahini sauce, lemon vinaigrette, or a balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
5. Is this bowl gluten-free?
   Yes, as long as you don’t add any gluten-containing grains, this bowl is naturally gluten-free.
6. Can I freeze the roasted chickpeas?
   It’s not recommended to freeze roasted chickpeas, as they can lose their crispy texture. However, you can freeze the roasted vegetables and reheat them as needed.
7. Can I substitute other legumes for chickpeas?
   Absolutely! Try using roasted lentils, black beans, or even cannellini beans for a different twist.
8. What can I serve with this bowl?
   This bowl is great on its own, but you can serve it with pita bread, a side salad, or a yogurt-based dip.
9. Can I air fry the chickpeas?
   Yes, you can air fry the chickpeas at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness.
10. Can I skip the balsamic vinegar?
    Yes, you can omit the balsamic vinegar or replace it with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor.

Conclusion

The Roasted Chickpea & Veggie Bowl is a healthy and versatile meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, this bowl packs a punch of flavor with its roasted vegetables, crispy chickpeas, and optional feta cheese topping. It’s easy to customize, making it a perfect choice for meal prepping or a quick weeknight dinner. Give it a try and discover your new favorite go-to bowl!

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