Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Chickpea Shawarma Bowl:
- For the chickpeas:
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the garlic sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon water to thin, as needed
- Salt, to taste
- For the bowl:
- 2 cups cooked quinoa or rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or greens
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Directions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chickpeas dry using a paper towel and toss them in a mixing bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Step 2: Spread the seasoned chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are crispy.
- Step 3: While the chickpeas are baking, prepare the garlic sauce by whisking together Greek yogurt, tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and water in a small bowl. Adjust the thickness with additional water if necessary and season with salt to taste.
- Step 4: Once the chickpeas are done, it’s time to assemble your bowls. Start with a base of cooked quinoa or rice, then layer on fresh greens, roasted chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Step 5: Drizzle a generous amount of garlic sauce over the top, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor!
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chickpeas and garlic sauce in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls just before serving for the best texture.
2. What can I substitute for quinoa?
If you are not a fan of quinoa, brown rice or cauliflower rice can serve as excellent alternatives.
3. Is the garlic sauce vegan?
No, the garlic sauce contains Greek yogurt. You can make it vegan by substituting the yogurt with a dairy-free option.
4. How can I make the chickpeas spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or red chili flakes into the seasoning mix.
5. Can I add protein to this recipe?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken or falafel can complement the bowl and add additional protein to the meal.
Conclusion
This Chickpea Shawarma Bowl with Garlic Sauce is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a colorful and nutritious meal that fits perfectly into a balanced diet. With its hearty chickpeas, vibrant vegetables, and creamy sauce, it provides a satisfying experience that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re following a plant-based diet or just looking for a healthy dinner option, this recipe is versatile enough to please everyone at your table. Give it a try, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how easy and delightful it is to prepare!
