Spiced Chickpea Buddha Bowl

Name: Spiced Chickpea Buddha Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, etc.); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup tahini; 1 lemon, juiced; Water to thin the dressing

Highlighted under: International Taste Journey

I absolutely love assembling this Spiced Chickpea Buddha Bowl! It's a vibrant dish bursting with flavor and nutrition, perfect for any meal of the day. The combination of spiced chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and creamy tahini dressing creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. I find that it not only satisfies my hunger but also nourishes my body with wholesome ingredients. Trust me, once you try this bowl, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-02-13T15:46:18.774Z

When I first tried a Buddha bowl, I was captivated by how each ingredient complemented the others. In my Spiced Chickpea Buddha Bowl, I focus on balancing flavors and textures, incorporating crispy chickpeas with fresh greens and a creamy dressing. I learned that roasting the chickpeas enhances their crunchiness, which adds a satisfying contrast to the other components.

Over time, I’ve experimented with different spices and vegetables, and I’m always amazed by the endless variations possible. One tip I’ve discovered is to use a blend of spices like cumin and paprika for a warm, cozy flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delicious spiced chickpeas that pack a flavor punch
Fresh vegetables for a crisp and vibrant texture
Creamy tahini dressing that ties everything together

Perfectly Roasting Chickpeas

Roasting the chickpeas is a step that elevates the overall texture of the Buddha bowl. Ensuring they are well-coated in the olive oil and spices is key; this mix not only allows for even roasting but also enhances the flavor. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on the baking sheet to promote crispiness. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the roasting time, as they should be golden brown and crispy but not burnt. If they start to crack, they're ready to come out!

If you find yourself in need of a quicker alternative, consider using canned roasted chickpeas available at many grocery stores. They can save you time but don’t provide the same fresh, vibrant flavor you get from roasting your own. Alternatively, you can pan-fry chickpeas on the stovetop over medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy. Just make sure to stir them often to avoid burning.

Crafting the Ideal Tahini Dressing

The tahini dressing is the star of this bowl, tying together the spices and fresh vegetables beautifully. When mixing your tahini, the key is to use fresh tahini that has been well-stirred; this ensures a creamy and smooth texture. If your tahini appears too thick, don’t hesitate to add more water a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Additionally, a touch of minced garlic or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add an excellent flavor dimension to this sauce.

Storing leftover tahini dressing is easy; keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If the dressing thickens after being refrigerated, simply whisk in a little water or lemon juice to bring it back to life. This dressing isn’t just for this bowl—consider using it as a dip for fresh vegetables or as a drizzle over grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, etc.)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup tahini
1 lemon, juiced
Water to thin the dressing

Instructions

Prepare the Chickpeas

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes or until crispy.

Make the Tahini Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and a bit of water until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed. Season with salt to taste.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl or plate, layer the mixed greens, roasted chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion. Drizzle with the tahini dressing before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this bowl by adding your favorite veggies or grains, like quinoa or brown rice. Also, try experimenting with different spices for the chickpeas to suit your taste preferences!

Serving Suggestions

This Spiced Chickpea Buddha Bowl can easily be customized based on the season or what you have in your pantry. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or a boiled egg on top the bowl. You can also mix in other grains like quinoa or farro, which will not only enhance the nutrition value but also add a satisfying chewiness that complements the chickpeas.

For those who love a bit of heat, feel free to sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha over the finished bowl. A handful of freshly chopped herbs, like cilantro or parsley, can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich tahini dressing that enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, the components can be prepared separately and stored. Roasted chickpeas can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to a week without losing their crunch. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing, as trapped moisture can lead to sogginess.

The tahini dressing also stores well, and you can prepare it a couple of days ahead. Simply give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate. Prepare all fresh veggies a day prior, but store them separately to maintain their crispness. When ready to serve, just assemble the bowl fresh for the best texture and flavor possible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the chickpeas ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the chickpeas up to two days in advance. Store them in an airtight container to keep them crunchy.

→ What can I substitute for tahini?

If you don't have tahini, you can try using Greek yogurt or almond butter as a creamy alternative for the dressing.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Spiced Chickpea Buddha Bowl is entirely vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ How can I make this dish more filling?

You can add cooked quinoa or brown rice to the bowl for an extra hearty meal that’s packed with fiber.