Mediterranean-Style Roasted Carrots with Spicy Maple Chickpeas
Introduction
This Roasted Carrots with Spicy Maple Chickpeas dish is a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal that combines sweet roasted carrots, crispy spiced chickpeas, and a touch of natural maple syrup for balance. The dish is packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it perfect as a light main course, side dish, or salad topper. A drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce adds creaminess, while fresh herbs bring brightness to the plate!
Prepping ingredients: 10 minutes
Roasting carrots & chickpeas: 25-30 minutes
Final assembly & garnish: 5 minutes
Total time: ~40 minutes
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
For the Roasted Carrots
1 lb (450g) carrots, peeled and cut into thick slices or left whole if small
1 ½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Spicy Maple Chickpeas
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained, rinsed, and patted dry
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
¼ tsp salt
For Garnish (Optional but Recommended)
2 tbsp tahini or Greek yogurt (for drizzling)
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds or pumpkin seeds
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roast the Carrots
In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Spread the carrots evenly on one side of the baking sheet.
Prepare the Chickpeas
In the same bowl, mix the chickpeas with olive oil, maple syrup, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and salt.
Spread the chickpeas on the other side of the baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake
Roast for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking.
The carrots should be tender and slightly caramelized, and the chickpeas should be crispy on the edges.
Assemble & Garnish
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
Drizzle with tahini or Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice for extra creaminess.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley, toasted sesame seeds, or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
For extra crispy chickpeas, dry them well before roasting.
Make it a full meal by serving over quinoa, farro, or couscous.
For a citrusy twist, add orange zest to the chickpeas before roasting.
Meal prep friendly! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: ~250 kcal
Protein: ~6g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Fat: ~10g
Saturated Fat: ~1.5g
Fiber: ~7g
Sugar: ~10g
Sodium: ~300mg