Save A nourishing and fiber-rich meal, this Chickpea Pasta Bowl is a vibrant celebration of Mediterranean flavors. Featuring nutty chickpea pasta, perfectly roasted vegetables, and a luxurious, creamy tahini sauce, it offers a wholesome and satisfying plant-based experience that is ideal for any day of the week.
Save This bowl stands out thanks to the combination of smoky paprika and aromatic oregano, which enhance the natural sweetness of the roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. The zesty lemon-tahini dressing ties every component together into a smooth, savory finish.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) chickpea pasta
- Roasted Vegetables: 1 medium zucchini (diced), 1 red bell pepper (chopped), 1 small red onion (sliced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt and black pepper to taste
- Tahini Sauce: 60 g (1/4 cup) tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave, 2 tablespoons warm water (more as needed), 1 garlic clove (minced), salt to taste
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped), 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, toss zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 3
- Roast vegetables for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Step 4
- Meanwhile, cook the chickpea pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 5
- For the tahini sauce, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, warm water, minced garlic, and salt in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed for a pourable consistency.
- Step 6
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta and roasted vegetables. Drizzle with tahini sauce and toss gently to coat.
- Step 7
- Divide between serving bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and toasted sesame seeds. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure you have a large pot for the pasta and a baking sheet, mixing bowls, whisk, and a chef’s knife ready. Note that chickpea pasta may contain traces of gluten, so verify labels if gluten-free is required. This dish also contains sesame via the tahini.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables such as eggplant, broccoli, or carrots to suit your preference. For those seeking extra protein, adding cooked chickpeas or grilled tofu cubes makes a great addition to this bowl.
Serviervorschläge
This Mediterranean-inspired meal pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a glass of sparkling water with lemon. It can be served immediately while warm or enjoyed as a chilled pasta salad the next day.
Save With 17g of protein and 410 calories per serving, this Chickpea Pasta Bowl is a balanced, easy-to-make dish that provides a wholesome alternative to traditional pasta recipes.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use regular pasta instead of chickpea pasta?
Yes, substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Adjust cooking time as needed since traditional pasta cooks differently than legume-based varieties.
- → How long does the tahini sauce keep?
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The sauce may thicken when chilled—simply whisk in additional warm water to reach desired consistency before using.
- → What vegetables work best for roasting?
Choose vegetables that roast well at high temperatures like eggplant, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or sweet potatoes. Cut pieces uniformly for even cooking and aim for similar-sized pieces to ensure everything finishes roasting together.
- → Is this bowl protein-rich enough for a main meal?
Chickpea pasta provides approximately 17 grams of protein per serving. For additional protein, incorporate cooked chickpeas, lentils, grilled tofu, or top with hemp seeds and nutritional yeast.
- → Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
This bowl prepares beautifully for meal prep. Store components separately in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat vegetables and pasta gently, then drizzle with fresh sauce just before serving to maintain optimal texture.