Roasted Veggie Orzo with Whipped Tahini & Crispy Chickpeas

This Roasted Veggie Orzo with Whipped Tahini and Crispy Chickpeas is the kind of meal that feels generous and nourishing at the same time. Tender orzo is tossed with caramelized vegetables, topped with golden roasted chickpeas, and finished with a silky whipped tahini sauce brightened with lemon and garlic. Fresh herbs and a sprinkle of spices pull everything together.

It works beautifully as a vegetarian main, a hearty side, or a meal prep option for the week. The contrast of textures is what makes it special. Creamy sauce, chewy pasta, crisp chickpeas, and soft roasted vegetables all in one bowl.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: About 50–55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Pasta

1 ½ cups dry orzo pasta

Vegetables

1 medium zucchini, sliced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 small red onion, sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Crispy Chickpeas

1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Salt to taste

Whipped Tahini Sauce

½ cup tahini

2 tablespoons plain yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 small garlic clove, minced

3–5 tablespoons warm water (to thin)

Salt to taste

Garnish

¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Extra paprika or chili flakes for sprinkling

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the vegetables. In a large bowl, toss zucchini, red bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

Roast the vegetables. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

Prepare chickpeas. Pat chickpeas dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil, paprika, chili flakes, and salt.

Roast chickpeas. Spread on a separate section of the baking sheet or another tray. Roast for 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crisp.

Cook the orzo. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the whipped tahini. In a bowl, whisk tahini, yogurt (if using), lemon juice, and garlic. Add warm water gradually while whisking until smooth and creamy. Season with salt.

Combine the base. In a large serving bowl, mix cooked orzo with roasted vegetables. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Assemble. Spoon whipped tahini over the orzo mixture and top with crispy chickpeas.

Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a pinch of paprika or chili flakes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips

Dry chickpeas thoroughly for maximum crispiness.

Roast vegetables in a single layer to prevent steaming.

Salt pasta water generously for better flavor.

Add warm water slowly to tahini to prevent clumping.

Taste tahini sauce before adding to adjust lemon or salt.

Use high-quality olive oil for better depth.

Slight charring on vegetables adds flavor.

Let chickpeas cool slightly; they crisp up more as they sit.

Chop vegetables evenly for consistent roasting.

Reserve some sauce for serving to keep presentation fresh.

Variations

Vegan Version: Omit yogurt and thin tahini with extra lemon water.

Add Greens: Stir in baby spinach while orzo is warm.

Grilled Veggies: Grill zucchini and peppers instead of roasting.

Spicy Harissa Twist: Add a spoon of harissa to the tahini.

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp.

Feta Finish: Sprinkle crumbled feta on top.

Mediterranean Style: Add olives and cucumber.

Whole Wheat Option: Use whole wheat orzo.

Nutty Addition: Toss in toasted pine nuts.

Lemon Zest Lift: Add lemon zest to the final dish.

Q&A

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, store components separately and assemble before serving.

How long does it last?
Up to 4 days refrigerated in an airtight container.

Do chickpeas stay crispy?
Best the first day. Re-crisp in the oven if needed.

Can I use another pasta?
Yes, small shapes like couscous or ditalini work well.

Is this served warm or cold?
Both work. It’s great at room temperature.

Can I air fry the chickpeas?
Yes, cook at 390°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.

Why did my tahini thicken too much?
Tahini thickens when mixed with lemon. Add more warm water.

Can I skip roasting tomatoes?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be added after roasting other vegetables.

What pairs well with this?
Grilled meats, baked fish, or a simple cucumber salad.

Is it gluten-free?
Not with regular orzo. Use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Nutrition

(Approximate per serving)

Calories: 420–460

Carbohydrates: 55–60g

Protein: 14–16g

Fat: 18–22g

Fiber: 8–10g

Sugar: 6–8g

Values vary depending on yogurt use and portion size.

Conclusion

Roasted Veggie Orzo with Whipped Tahini and Crispy Chickpeas brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures in a balanced, wholesome way. The roasted vegetables add sweetness and depth, the chickpeas provide crunch and protein, and the whipped tahini ties everything together with creamy brightness.

It’s flexible, meal-prep friendly, and easy to adapt based on what you have in your kitchen. Whether you serve it as a main or a side, it’s the kind of dish that feels vibrant, filling, and full of character.