Description
Roasted Cauliflower & Chickpea Heaven
This hearty and flavorful roasted cauliflower dish is bursting with warm spices, crispy textures, and cheesy halloumi! Perfect for a healthy meal or side dish!
Ingredients:
1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
1 can chickpeas, drained
200g halloumi cheese, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
2 tbsp honey
¼ cup toasted almonds
Fresh parsley for garnish
Would you try this with a spicy harissa dressing?
#TastyPlates
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets and drained chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt until evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes.
4. While the vegetables roast, pat the halloumi cubes dry. After the 20 minutes, remove the tray from the oven, add the halloumi cubes to the tray, and drizzle the honey over everything. Gently toss to combine.
5. Return the tray to the oven for a final 10-15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden, the chickpeas are crispy, and the halloumi is browned at the edges.
6. Remove from the oven, transfer to a serving dish, and top with toasted almonds and fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be served in several ways. For a light meal, serve it over a bed of fresh spinach or arugula, which will wilt slightly from the heat. To make it more substantial, pair it with cooked quinoa, couscous, or warm flatbreads. A dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side adds a cool, creamy contrast. As suggested in the prompt, a spicy harissa dressing drizzled on top would be an excellent addition for a flavor kick.
How-to Summary
Cut cauliflower, drain chickpeas, and toss with oil and spices. Roast at 425°F for 20 minutes. Add cubed halloumi and honey, then roast for another 10-15 minutes until golden. Garnish with almonds and parsley before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prep the vegetables and spice mix ahead, but for the best texture, roast everything just before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
What can I use instead of halloumi? If halloumi is unavailable, try cubed paneer, firm tofu (pressed), or even chunks of feta cheese added in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
How do I get my chickpeas extra crispy? Ensure they are thoroughly drained and patted dry before tossing with oil. Also, make sure they are in a single layer on the baking sheet, not crowded.
Is there a vegan substitute for the honey? Absolutely. Maple syrup or agave nectar work perfectly as a 1:1 substitute to achieve that sweet, caramelized glaze.
Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, but thaw and pat it completely dry first to avoid steaming. The texture may be slightly softer than fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this will steam the vegetables instead of roasting them. Use two trays if necessary. Do not add the halloumi at the beginning, as it will release too much moisture and become rubbery. Ensure your oven is fully preheated for optimal roasting and caramelization. Finally, don’t skip toasting the almonds; it deeply enhances their flavor and crunch.
Conclusion
This Roasted Cauliflower & Chickpea Heaven is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. The combination of warm spices, sweet honey, salty halloumi, and crunchy almonds offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a flexible, crowd-pleasing dish that is as nutritious as it is delicious. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite herbs or a spicy drizzle!
