Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl! This bowl is not just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion that’s packed with nutrition! I love how the warm, roasted chickpeas mingle with the freshness of the veggies and the creaminess of tahini—it’s pure magic. Plus, it’s vegan and hearty enough to satisfy anyone. I whip this up when I want something quick but delicious, and honestly, it never disappoints. You get that Middle Eastern shawarma flavor without the fuss, and believe me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients List
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons shawarma spice mix
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Pita bread, for serving
How to Prepare Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl
Preheat and Roast Chickpeas
First things first, let’s get that oven fired up! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, grab your can of chickpeas. Make sure they’re drained and rinsed, so you get rid of all that canned flavor. Then, in a bowl, toss the chickpeas with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 teaspoons of shawarma spice mix. This is where the magic starts! Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. You want those babies to roast for about 25 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. Trust me, the flavor that develops is absolutely worth the wait!
Prepare Quinoa
Now, while your chickpeas are roasting, let’s get that quinoa cooking! Take 1 cup of quinoa and rinse it under cold water to remove any bitterness. Then, cook it according to the package instructions. Usually, it’s a simple 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio. Bring it to a boil, cover it, and let it simmer until all the water is absorbed—about 15 minutes. Fluff it with a fork once it’s done. This fluffy goodness is the base of your bowl, so don’t skip this step!
Mix Fresh Ingredients
While the chickpeas and quinoa work their magic, it’s time to prep the fresh veggies! In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion. This mix not only adds vibrant colors but also a fresh crunch that pairs beautifully with the roasted chickpeas. Feel free to toss in a sprinkle of salt to enhance those flavors!
Whisk Tahini Sauce
Let’s not forget about the creamy tahini sauce! In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of tahini, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. This sauce is the star of the show, bringing everything together with its nutty, tangy goodness. If it’s too thick, add a little water until you reach your desired consistency. You want it smooth, but not runny!
Assemble the Bowl
Finally, it’s time to assemble your Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl! Start with a generous scoop of quinoa at the bottom. Next, pile on those roasted chickpeas, followed by your fresh veggie mix. Drizzle the tahini sauce over the top like you’re an artist creating a masterpiece! Serve it all up with some warm pita bread on the side, and there you have it—a delicious, colorful bowl that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to look at!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl! Here’s an estimated breakdown for one bowl:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates, and they can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But no matter how you slice it, you’re getting a hearty, nutritious meal that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
- Flavor-Packed: The roasted chickpeas combined with vibrant veggies and creamy tahini create a delicious explosion of flavors in every bite.
- Nutrient-Dense: With protein-rich chickpeas, fiber-packed quinoa, and fresh veggies, this bowl is a powerhouse of nutrition.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences—try different veggies or grains to make it your own!
- Vegan and Wholesome: This recipe is 100% plant-based, so it’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week—just store the components separately to keep everything fresh!
Tips for Success
Alright, my friend, let’s make sure your Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl turns out perfectly every time! Here are some of my favorite tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Don’t Rush the Roasting: Make sure to give those chickpeas enough time in the oven to get crispy. If they’re not golden and crunchy, they won’t have that amazing texture you want!
- Adjust the Spice: If you like it spicy, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or some extra shawarma spice mix! Just taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
- Freshness Counts: Use fresh veggies for the best flavor and crunch. If possible, go for farm-fresh tomatoes and cucumbers—they make a world of difference!
- Perfect Your Tahini Sauce: If your tahini is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water or even a bit more lemon juice to get that creamy texture just right.
- Prep Ahead: You can roast the chickpeas and cook the quinoa ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and you’ll have a quick, delicious meal ready to go!
- Mix It Up: Don’t be afraid to switch things up! You can add roasted sweet potatoes, chickpea salad, or even a dollop of hummus for an extra layer of flavor.
- Watch the Salt: Since tahini can be naturally salty, be careful when salting your veggies and chickpeas. Taste before adding more!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl that not only looks stunning but also tastes absolutely divine! Enjoy every bite!
Variations of Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl
If you’re anything like me, you love mixing things up in the kitchen! The great thing about this Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl is its versatility. Here are some fun ideas to jazz it up while keeping that delicious essence intact:
- Spice it Up: Try experimenting with different spice blends! If you want a little heat, add some harissa or smoked paprika to the chickpeas. Or, go international with a curry powder or taco seasoning for a unique twist!
- Veggie Adventure: Don’t feel limited to just cherry tomatoes and cucumbers. You can include roasted bell peppers, diced avocados, or even shredded carrots. The more colors, the better—plus, each veggie adds its own flavor and crunch!
- Grain Swap: While quinoa is fantastic, you could easily switch it out for couscous, farro, or even brown rice. Each grain brings a different texture and taste to the bowl, so feel free to get creative!
- Protein Boost: If you want to amp up the protein, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or some roasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch. You can also toss in some chickpea salad for an extra layer of flavor!
- Herb Your Enthusiasm: Fresh herbs can elevate your bowl. Try adding chopped parsley, cilantro, or mint for a refreshing touch. They not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful pop of color!
- Different Sauces: While tahini sauce is a winner, don’t be afraid to try other dressings! A yogurt-based sauce or a zesty vinaigrette can bring a whole new flavor profile to your bowl.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Embrace what’s in season! In the fall, roasted butternut squash would be a fabulous addition, and in the summer, fresh corn or zucchini would shine. Let the seasons guide you!
The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity flow! Whatever you choose, I guarantee you’ll still end up with a Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl that’s bursting with flavor and personality. Enjoy the delicious journey!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a delicious Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl, and now you have some leftovers? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Proper storage is key to keeping those flavors fresh and delightful.
To store your leftovers, I recommend separating the components. Keep the roasted chickpeas, quinoa, and fresh veggies in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This way, the chickpeas stay crispy, and the veggies don’t get soggy! They’ll last for about 3 to 4 days—perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
When it comes to reheating, you want to maintain that lovely texture. For the chickpeas, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help them regain their crunch. If you’re short on time, a quick blast in the microwave works too, but they might lose a bit of their crispiness.
The quinoa can be reheated in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or you can warm it up in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. As for the fresh veggies, I recommend enjoying them cold right out of the fridge—they add a nice refreshing crunch to your bowl!
Once everything is warmed up, simply reassemble your bowl with the tahini sauce drizzled on top, and you’re ready to dig in again! Trust me, it’ll taste just as good the second time around! Enjoy!
Your Turn to Try the Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl!
Alright, my friend, now it’s your turn to dive into the deliciousness of this Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl! I can’t wait for you to whip this up in your kitchen and experience all those amazing flavors for yourself. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear what you think! Did you add any fun twists? Maybe you tried a different veggie or spice? Share your experiences in the comments below—I’m always eager to hear your feedback and any creative ideas you come up with!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to rate it too! Your feedback helps me know what you love and inspires me to share even more delicious recipes. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and let the magic happen. Happy cooking!
Print
Chickpea “Shawarma” Bowl: 7 Flavorful Secrets Revealed
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A chickpea shawarma bowl packed with flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons shawarma spice mix
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Pita bread, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss chickpeas with olive oil and shawarma spice mix.
- Spread chickpeas on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes.
- While chickpeas roast, prepare quinoa according to package instructions.
- In a bowl, mix cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk tahini, lemon juice, and salt.
- Once chickpeas are done, assemble the bowl: add quinoa, roasted chickpeas, and veggie mix.
- Drizzle tahini sauce over the top and serve with pita.
Notes
- Adjust spice level to your taste.
- Can substitute quinoa with rice if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Chickpea Shawarma Bowl, Vegan Bowl, Healthy Meal