Za’atar Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas Bowls Recipe

This enticing bowl featuring za'atar roasted carrots and chickpeas is a delicious fusion of flavors and textures. The earthy spice blend za'atar perfectly complements the sweet carrots and hearty chickpeas, while the tangy yogurt and feta add a refreshing contrast. Treat yourself to this healthy and satisfying meal that's easy to make and packed with nutrition.

Photos of Za’atar Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas Bowls Recipe

The unique ingredient in this recipe is the za'atar spice blend, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. It's a mix of dried thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. You might not find it in your everyday grocery store, but it's worth seeking out in a specialty food store or online. It imparts a robust flavor profile to the carrots and chickpeas in this recipe.

Ingredients for Za'atar Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas Bowl

Heirloom baby carrots: These sweet, tender vegetables are not your average carrots. They come in a variety of colors and provide a burst of color to this dish.

Chickpeas: These legumes are high in protein and fiber and add a satisfying crunch to the bowl.

Olive oil: Used for roasting the carrots and chickpeas, and for dressing the kale. It adds a rich, smooth flavor.

Za’atar spice blend: This Middle Eastern spice blend adds a deep, earthy flavor to the dish.

Kosher salt and black pepper: Seasoning ingredients to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Feta cheese: A tangy cheese that complements the flavors of the other ingredients.

Lemon zest and juice: Adds bright, citrus notes to balance the rich flavors.

Kale: A nutrient-dense leafy green that adds color, texture, and health benefits to the bowl.

Greek yogurt: Provides a creamy base for the bowl, and its tangy flavor contrasts beautifully with the rest of the ingredients.

One reader, Joletta Nowak says:

This za'atar roasted carrots and chickpeas bowl recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so vibrant and the dish is incredibly satisfying. The combination of the roasted carrots, chickpeas, and za'atar spice is simply divine. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious meal.

Joletta Nowak

Mastering the Art of Roasting Vegetables

How to roast carrots and chickpeas: Roasting the carrots and chickpeas involves drizzling them with olive oil, za'atar, salt, and pepper, then baking them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 40-45 minutes until the carrots are crisp-tender and browned, turning them halfway through.

How to massage kale: To massage the kale, toss it with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt in a large bowl, then use your hands to massage the kale for 1-2 minutes until it becomes soft.

How to assemble the bowl: Begin by adding a layer of yogurt to the bottom of each shallow bowl. Next, transfer the hot roasted carrots over the yogurt, season with more salt and lemon zest, then scatter the chickpeas over each dish and drizzle the remaining oil. Finally, top with the massaged kale and crumbled feta.

How To Make Za’atar Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas Bowls

Seasoned with za’atar and served with creamy Greek yogurt with kale, our roasted carrots and chickpeas bowls are surely delicious, hearty, and healthy.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

16smallheirloom baby carrots,(about 16 oz in total) washed, dried, stems trimmed
15ozchickpeas,(1 can) rinsed, drained
3tbspolive oil
2tspZa’atar spice blend
¼tspkosher salt
fresh black pepper,to taste
1ozfeta cheese,crumbled
1tsplemon zest
1lemon
½bunchkale,preferably lacinato, ribs removed and discarded, 2½ oz total without ribs
½tbspfreshly squeezed lemon juice
2cupsGreek yogurt,full-fat, such as Stonyfield

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a large sheet pan with olive oil.
Drain the chickpeas in a colander or salad spinner, and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Let them dry completely.
Place the carrots and chickpeas on the prepared sheet pan and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, Za’atar, salt and black pepper.
Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes until the carrots are crisp-tender and browned, turning halfway.
While the carrots and chickpeas are cooking, slice the kale into ¼-inch thin ribbons and place in a large bowl.
Toss with ½ tablespoon olive oil, lemon juice, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
Massage the kale with your hands for about 1 to 2 minutes, until soft.
In 4 shallow bowls, swoosh ½ cup of yogurt in the bottom of each.
While the carrots are still hot, transfer over the yogurt and season with more salt and lemon zest.
Scatter the chickpeas over each dish and drizzle the remaining oil.
Top with kale and crumbled feta

Nutrition

Calories: 671.01kcal
Fat: 26.17g
Saturated Fat: 7.92g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.25g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.20g
Carbohydrates: 79.89g
Fiber: 15.83g
Sugar: 19.40g
Protein: 34.95g
Cholesterol: 25.46mg
Sodium: 319.91mg
Calcium: 254.70mg
Potassium: 1026.13mg
Iron: 5.68mg
Vitamin A: 414.69µg
Vitamin C: 44.90mg

Achieving the Perfect Crispy Texture for Roasted Chickpeas

When roasting vegetables like carrots and chickpeas, it's important to ensure they are spread out evenly on the pan. Overcrowding can cause the vegetables to steam instead of roast, preventing that delicious caramelization. Also, tossing them in olive oil and za'atar before roasting will help the spices adhere better, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing This Flavorful Bowl

Prep ahead: Chop and season the carrots and chickpeas the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Multi-task: While the carrots and chickpeas are roasting, use that time to prepare the kale and yogurt, maximizing efficiency in the kitchen.

Invest in a good quality za'atar: Using a high-quality za'atar spice blend can enhance the flavor of the dish, saving you from having to use multiple seasonings.

Substitute Ingredients For Za’atar Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas Bowls Recipe

heirloom baby carrots - Substitute with regular baby carrots: Regular baby carrots can be used as a substitute for heirloom baby carrots, as they have a similar sweet flavor and tender texture when roasted.
za'atar spice blend - Substitute with a mix of equal parts thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac: A mix of equal parts thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac can be used as a substitute for za'atar spice blend to achieve a similar earthy, tangy flavor profile.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, as it provides a similar level of salinity and can be used in the same quantity.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese can be used as a substitute for feta cheese, as it has a tangy flavor and crumbly texture that can complement the dish in a similar way.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime can be used as a substitute for lemon to provide a similar citrusy flavor and acidity to the dish.
kale - Substitute with swiss chard: Swiss chard can be used as a substitute for kale, as it has a similar hearty texture and earthy flavor when sautéed or roasted.
greek yogurt - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can be used as a substitute for Greek yogurt, as it provides a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor to the dish.

Plating Ideas for a Stunning Presentation

Elevate the plating: Arrange the roasted carrots and chickpeas in a visually appealing manner, ensuring each element is showcased beautifully.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant elements such as the heirloom baby carrots and the green kale to create a visually striking and appetizing presentation.
Utilize negative space: Allow the white space on the plate to complement the vibrant colors of the dish, enhancing the overall visual impact.
Highlight the textures: Showcase the different textures of the dish, from the crispy chickpeas to the tender roasted carrots, to create an enticing visual and sensory experience.
Incorporate a drizzle design: Use the remaining olive oil to create an elegant drizzle pattern on the plate, adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Garnish with microgreens: Add a delicate sprinkle of microgreens to add a pop of freshness and a refined touch to the dish.
Use elegant serving ware: Select elegant and minimalistic serving ware to complement the sophistication of the dish and elevate the overall dining experience.
Emphasize the yogurt base: Ensure the yogurt base is spread smoothly and evenly, serving as a canvas for the vibrant and flavorful components of the dish.
Add a touch of citrus: Incorporate a subtle hint of lemon zest as a finishing touch, enhancing the aroma and adding a burst of freshness to the dish.
Create a balanced composition: Arrange the elements in a balanced and harmonious manner, ensuring that each component complements the others to create a visually stunning presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Za'atar Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas

Oven: You will need an oven to roast the carrots and chickpeas to perfection.
Sheet pan: A sheet pan is essential for baking the carrots and chickpeas in the oven.
Colander or salad spinner: Use a colander or salad spinner to drain the chickpeas and ensure they are dry before roasting.
Plate lined with paper towels: This will be used to transfer the chickpeas and allow them to dry completely before roasting.
Large bowl: A large bowl is needed for tossing the kale with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
Paper towels: You will need paper towels to line a plate and dry the chickpeas before roasting.
Salad spinner: A salad spinner can be used to drain and dry the chickpeas before roasting.
Knife: A knife will be used to slice the kale into thin ribbons.
Zester: A zester will be used to zest the lemon for added flavor.
Spoon: A spoon will be used to swoosh the yogurt in the bottom of each serving bowl.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons will be used to accurately measure the za'atar spice blend, salt, and lemon zest.
Measuring cups: Measuring cups will be used to measure the greek yogurt for serving.
Tongs: Tongs can be used to transfer the hot roasted carrots to the serving bowls.
Olive oil spray: Olive oil spray can be used to coat the sheet pan before roasting the carrots and chickpeas.

Maximizing Freshness: Storage and Freezing Guidelines

Let the za'atar roasted carrots and chickpeas cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, place the cooled roasted carrots and chickpeas in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container with the date and contents, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the carrots and chickpeas in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed carrots and chickpeas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For best results, store the yogurt, kale, and feta separately from the roasted carrots and chickpeas.
Assemble the bowls with fresh yogurt, kale, and feta when ready to serve, and top with the reheated za'atar roasted carrots and chickpeas.
If you have leftover assembled bowls, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, keeping in mind that the kale may wilt and the yogurt may separate slightly.

Reviving Leftovers: Tips for Reheating

To reheat leftover za'atar roasted carrots and chickpeas bowl, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will help to gently reheat the dish without overcooking or drying out the ingredients.
Arrange the leftover carrots and chickpeas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Make sure to spread them out evenly to ensure uniform reheating.
If the carrots and chickpeas seem a bit dry, you can drizzle a small amount of olive oil over them before reheating. This will help to restore some moisture and prevent them from drying out further in the oven.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the carrots and chickpeas are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking or burning.
While the carrots and chickpeas are reheating, you can prepare the other components of the bowl, such as the kale and yogurt. If the kale has become soggy, you can quickly sauté it in a pan with a little olive oil to restore its texture and flavor.
Once the carrots and chickpeas are heated through, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before assembling the bowl.
To assemble the reheated za'atar roasted carrots and chickpeas bowl, start by swooshing the yogurt in the bottom of a shallow bowl, just as you did when preparing the dish initially.
Arrange the warm carrots and chickpeas over the yogurt, and season with a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten up the flavors.
Top the bowl with the refreshed kale and crumbled feta cheese, adding a burst of freshness and tanginess to the dish.
If desired, you can drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top of the bowl to enhance the richness and depth of flavor.
Serve the reheated za'atar roasted carrots and chickpeas bowl immediately while still warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors that this dish has to offer.

Discovering the Origins of Za'atar Spice Blend

Za'atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend that typically includes dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, and marjoram, mixed with toasted sesame seeds and sumac. It adds a unique and aromatic flavor to the roasted carrots and chickpeas in this recipe.

Budget-Friendly Meals: Is This Recipe Wallet-Wise?

This za'atar roasted carrots and chickpeas bowl recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as carrots and chickpeas, are affordable and readily available. The addition of kale and lemon enhances the nutritional value without significantly increasing the cost. The use of Greek yogurt and feta cheese adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect balance of cost-effectiveness and nutritional value. Verdict: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-20.

Is This Middle Eastern-Inspired Bowl Nutritious?

This za'atar roasted carrots and chickpeas bowl recipe is a healthy and nutritious meal option. Here's why:

The recipe features a variety of nutrient-dense ingredients, such as carrots, chickpeas, kale, and Greek yogurt, which provide a good balance of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein.
The use of olive oil, a healthy fat source, helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and adds beneficial monounsaturated fats to the dish.
Za'atar, a Middle Eastern spice blend, is known for its antioxidant properties and can help boost the overall nutritional value of the meal.
The inclusion of kale, a superfood, adds a significant amount of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium.
Greek yogurt provides a good source of protein and probiotics, which can aid in digestive health and support a healthy gut microbiome.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt to reduce the overall calorie and saturated fat content of the dish.
Increase the amount of kale or add other leafy greens, such as spinach or Swiss chard, to boost the fiber and nutrient content.
Experiment with other nutrient-dense toppings, such as:
- Chopped nuts or seeds for added healthy fats and crunch
- Diced avocado for extra heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
- Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for additional flavor and antioxidants
Consider using a reduced-fat feta cheese or omitting it altogether to lower the saturated fat content of the meal.

Our Editor's Take on This Aromatic and Satisfying Recipe

The recipe for za'atar roasted carrots and chickpeas bowl is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of za'atar spice blend adds a unique and aromatic touch to the dish, complementing the sweetness of the carrots and the earthiness of the chickpeas. The addition of feta cheese and lemon zest provides a tangy and refreshing contrast, while the massaged kale adds a healthy and vibrant element to the bowl. The dish is well-balanced and visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Za’atar Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas Bowls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, and grated parmesan cheese before roasting until crispy and golden brown.

Honey Sriracha Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Coat Brussels sprouts in a mixture of honey and sriracha before roasting until caramelized and tender, then sprinkle with sesame seeds for added crunch.

Balsamic Glazed Grilled Eggplant: Brush thick slices of eggplant with a balsamic glaze and grill until charred and tender, then sprinkle with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.

Cilantro Lime Quinoa: Cook quinoa with vegetable broth, then toss with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt for a zesty and nutritious side dish.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Combine diced mango, avocado, red onion, and jalapeno with lime juice and cilantro for a refreshing and colorful salsa to serve alongside the za'atar roasted carrots and chickpeas bowl.

Delicious Alternatives to Za'atar Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas Bowl

Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Grilled shrimp tacos with a spicy kick, topped with fresh salsa and creamy avocado sauce.

Mango Coconut Chicken Curry: A flavorful and creamy chicken curry with a tropical twist, made with mango and coconut milk.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: A hearty and nutritious quinoa salad loaded with roasted vegetables and a zesty lemon vinaigrette dressing.

Berry Chia Seed Pudding: A healthy and delicious chia seed pudding made with mixed berries and a touch of sweetness.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Za'atar Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas Bowl

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a delightful appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a savory mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Whip up a batch of crispy zucchini fritters for a light and flavorful appetizer. Serve with a side of tangy dipping sauce for a perfect combination of textures and flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy vanilla yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and light dessert. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with different textures, creates a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why trust this Za’atar Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas Bowls Recipe:

This recipe is a testament to the power of za'atar and olive oil to elevate the flavors of carrots and chickpeas. The combination of za'atar spice blend, lemon zest, and feta cheese creates a harmonious blend of Mediterranean flavors. The use of heirloom baby carrots and kale showcases a commitment to fresh, wholesome ingredients. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof cooking process. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a delightful and nourishing bowl that will tantalize your taste buds.

Want to share your experience making these flavorful Za'atar Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas Bowls or discuss variations on the recipe? Join the conversation in our Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?

Yes, you can use regular carrots instead of baby carrots. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

Can I substitute the za'atar spice blend with something else?

If you don't have za'atar spice blend, you can make a simple substitute by mixing equal parts of dried thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. This will provide a similar flavor profile.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Absolutely! You can use crumbled goat cheese, shredded Parmesan, or even a sprinkle of tangy blue cheese as a substitute for feta.

Can I prepare the yogurt sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the yogurt sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using to ensure a smooth consistency.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Certainly! Feel free to add other vegetables like roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even cherry tomatoes to customize the dish to your liking. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.