Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Tray

Name: Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Tray
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 500g carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks; 400g canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh Inspiration

I absolutely love creating vibrant and wholesome meals, and the Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Tray has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of earthy roasted carrots and protein-rich chickpeas creates a satisfying dish that feels fresh and hearty. Tossing everything in a blend of spices before baking adds depth and warmth to this simple yet delicious recipe. Perfect for any weeknight dinner or meal prep, I find that it never fails to impress both friends and family with its alluring colors and flavors.

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:01:53.807Z

When I first made the Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Tray, I couldn't believe how simple it was to prepare something so tasty. The key to its success lies in roasting the carrots just until they caramelize, enhancing their natural sweetness, while the chickpeas become golden and slightly crispy. I love to play around with the spices, but a hint of cumin truly ties the flavors together perfectly.

Another tip I've learned is to ensure that everything is spread out evenly on the baking tray. This allows each piece to roast beautifully without steaming, resulting in a medley of textures that makes every bite enjoyable. Trust me, you’ll want to make this over and over again!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant colors and flavors that brighten up any meal
High in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice
Versatile dish that works great as a side or main course

The Role of Spices

In this Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Tray, the spices serve a vital role in enhancing the natural flavors of the vegetables. Ground cumin adds an earthy warmth, while smoked paprika infuses a subtle smokiness that complements the sweetness of the roasted carrots. When combined, these spices create a depth of flavor that elevates the dish beyond a simple vegetable roast. Experimenting with additional spices, like cayenne or coriander, can also provide a unique twist, depending on your personal preferences.

Be mindful when seasoning. Start with the recommended amounts, and adjust to your taste. If you're not a fan of overly spicy food, reduce the paprika or add a touch of honey to balance the heat. Remember, the goal is to allow the natural sweetness of the carrots to shine through, offsetting the savory notes from the chickpeas and spices.

Perfect Roasting Techniques

Achieving perfectly roasted carrots and chickpeas is all about ensuring each piece has enough space on the tray. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting. The ideal scenario is to arrange them in a single layer with a bit of space in between. This strategy allows hot air to circulate, resulting in that delectable caramelization on the edges. Visually, look for a golden-brown hue and tender texture when they are done. If you notice that they're cooking unevenly, a quick stir halfway through can help them roast more uniformly.

For an added layer of flavor, consider pre-roasting the chickpeas for a few minutes on their own before adding the carrots. This technique helps them crisp up while allowing the carrots to roast without becoming overly soft. If you're dealing with larger carrots, slice them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking; smaller pieces will cook faster, while larger ones may need a bit more time in the oven.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful tray of roasted goodness!

Ingredients

500g carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
400g canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Enjoy creating this colorful dish and don’t forget to savor every bite!

Instructions

Let's dive into the easy steps to prepare your Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Tray!

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Prepare the Veggies

In a large bowl, combine the sliced carrots and rinsed chickpeas. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.

Arrange on Tray

Spread the carrot and chickpea mixture evenly on the prepared baking tray, ensuring there's space between them for even roasting.

Roast

Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.

Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

This roasted dish is not only delightful but also very nourishing!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize this tray to your liking. It’s a flexible recipe that adapts well to personal tastes.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant tray of roasted carrots and chickpeas is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Enjoy it warm as a hearty main dish, or as a colorful side alongside your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or roasted fish. For an extra touch, a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini can offer a creamy contrast to the roasted flavors, elevating the meal further.

Additionally, if you have leftovers, consider mixing them into salads or grain bowls. They add a delightful texture and flavor to cold dishes, making them perfect for lunch the next day. A sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of arugula can also bring fresh notes to these leftovers.

Storage and Meal Prep

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, store the roasted carrots and chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, I recommend using an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy texture rather than a microwave, which can cause them to become soggy. Just spread them out on a baking sheet at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes until they're warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the roasted mixture. Lay it flat in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it can last up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven as mentioned earlier. This meal prep hack makes it easy to have a wholesome, flavorful option ready when you need it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen carrots in this recipe?

Yes, frozen carrots will work, but reduce the roasting time slightly to prevent them from becoming mushy.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice mix for an extra kick.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Tray is completely vegan and nutritious.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.