Roasted Vegetable and Chickpea Bowl with Maple Dijon Tahini Dressing

Ingredients:

For the Roasted Vegetables and Chickpeas:

• 1 can chickpeas (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
• 1 sweet potato (peeled and diced)
• 1 zucchini (diced)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 red onion (cut into wedges)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Cooked quinoa, rice, or farro (for the base of the bowl)

For the Maple Dijon Tahini Dressing:

• 1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 2-3 tablespoons water (to thin, adjust as needed)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Method:

Roasting the Vegetables and Chickpeas:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large baking sheet, toss the chickpeas, sweet potato, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Spread everything out in an even layer.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, and the chickpeas are crispy.

Preparing the Maple Dijon Tahini Dressing:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
2. Slowly add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. It should be smooth and pourable.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more maple syrup or lemon juice as needed.

Assembling the Bowl:

1. Start with a base of cooked quinoa, rice, or farro in each bowl.
2. Top with the roasted vegetables and crispy chickpeas.
3. Drizzle generously with the maple Dijon tahini dressing.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro), a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or even some avocado slices if desired.

Serving:

This bowl is perfect as a filling vegetarian meal and can be served warm or at room temperature. You can also prepare it ahead of time and assemble when ready to serve.

Would you like to add any variations or extra toppings to this bowl?