Description
Creamy Chickpea Bake
Ingredients:
1 medium carrot, diced
½ aubergine (eggplant), diced
½ courgette (zucchini), diced
1 red pepper, diced
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, halved
1 tsp dried parsley
2 tbsp oil
400g tin chickpeas, drained
3 tbsp garlic and herb cream cheese
75g cheddar cheese, grated
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In an 8×8″ baking dish, combine the diced carrot, aubergine, courgette, red pepper, onion, garlic, dried parsley, and oil. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
Roast in the oven for 40 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Remove from oven, add the chickpeas and garlic and herb cream cheese, stirring to combine. Top with grated cheddar.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 371 per serving | Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready. Use an 8×8-inch baking dish for ideal depth. Combine all the diced vegetables (carrot, aubergine, courgette, red pepper, onion) and halved garlic cloves in the dish. Sprinkle with dried parsley and drizzle with oil, then use your hands or a spoon to toss until every piece is evenly coated. Spread the mixture into a single layer for even roasting. Place the dish in the center of the preheated oven and roast for 40 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized at the edges.
Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Add the drained chickpeas and dollops of the garlic and herb cream cheese. Stir vigorously—the heat from the vegetables will begin to melt the cream cheese, creating a creamy sauce that coats everything. Once combined, smooth the top and evenly sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the entire surface. Return the dish to the oven and bake for a final 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and golden in spots.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a versatile dish. Serve it directly from the oven as a satisfying main course alongside a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, spoon it over a bed of cooked couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It also makes an excellent, flavorful side dish for grilled chicken or fish. Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
How-to Summary
Dice vegetables and garlic, toss with oil and parsley, then roast for 40 minutes. Stir in chickpeas and cream cheese, top with cheddar, and bake for 15 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes, substitute 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley for the dried. Add it when stirring in the cream cheese for a brighter flavor.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free? Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and a dairy-free grated cheese that melts well. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You can chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge a day ahead. For best results, assemble and bake just before serving.
What can I use instead of aubergine (eggplant)? Mushrooms, sweet potato, or extra courgette make great substitutes. Adjust roasting time slightly if using harder vegetables like sweet potato.
Is it necessary to peel the vegetables? No, leaving the skins on provides extra fiber and texture. Just ensure they are washed thoroughly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid cutting the vegetables too large, as they won’t cook evenly. Ensure your baking dish is the recommended size; a larger dish will cause the vegetable layer to be too thin and potentially dry out. Do not skip stirring the vegetables halfway through the initial roasting. Finally, do not add the cream cheese to cold vegetables—it must be stirred in while they are hot to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chickpea Bake is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a deeply comforting and flavorful meal. The combination of roasted vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and a creamy, cheesy sauce is both nourishing and indulgent. It’s a reliable, one-dish wonder that is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious, hearty results.