Roasted Sweet Potato Chickpea Tray

Name: Roasted Sweet Potato Chickpea Tray
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; Balsamic vinegar for drizzling (optional)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Food

I love making this Roasted Sweet Potato Chickpea Tray because it’s a vibrant and nutritious dish that satisfies both my craving for flavor and my need for healthy eating. The combination of the sweet potatoes with hearty chickpeas creates a filling meal that packs a protein punch. Plus, it's easy to prepare and can be customized with different spices. I often serve this as a side dish or a main course, making it a versatile addition to my recipe collection.

Created by

Elin Matthews

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:37:35.713Z

When I first tried making this Roasted Sweet Potato Chickpea Tray, I was amazed by how simple ingredients could create such complex flavors. The sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully, while the chickpeas add a delightful crunch. I learned that roasting at a high temperature allows the natural sugars to develop, which is key to enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

After a few trials, I found that adding a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end brings everything together and adds an unexpected depth. This dish is perfect for meal prep as it holds up well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful and appealing presentation that brightens any table
Nutritious ingredients packed with flavor and texture
Versatile enough to serve as a side or a main dish

Ingredient Spotlight: Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, providing not only a natural sweetness but also a creamy texture when roasted. Choosing the right sweet potato is crucial; opt for those that feel firm and are free from blemishes. The skin should be smooth, which indicates freshness. When roasted, they should develop a caramelized exterior while remaining tender inside, offering a delightful contrast that elevates the overall experience of the tray.

Another reason for using sweet potatoes is their nutritional profile. They are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making this dish both nourishing and satisfying. If you're looking for a substitute, butternut squash works well, though it tends to be sweeter; just adjust the spices slightly to balance the flavors.

Perfect Roasting Techniques

Roasting at the right temperature is key to achieving that sought-after caramelization. At 425°F (220°C), the sweet potatoes and chickpeas will brown nicely, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior. If you're using a convection oven, you may want to reduce the temperature by 20°F (10°C) to avoid over-browning. Keep an eye on them during the last 10 minutes; small adjustments in time can lead to perfectly roasted ingredients.

For the best results, avoid crowding the baking sheet. Spacing them out allows for better air circulation, ensuring even cooking. If you're doubling the recipe, consider using two trays instead of packing everything onto one. This prevents steaming and promotes that desirable roasted flavor and texture.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Roasted Sweet Potato Chickpea Tray can be served in multiple ways. Enjoy it warm as a hearty main course or serve it as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. For a refreshing twist, it pairs wonderfully with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tahini sauce, adding creaminess that complements the dish beautifully.

Storage is simple; leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispness, or you can quickly zap it in the microwave. However, for the best texture, I recommend the oven—spread them out on a baking tray and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Roasted Sweet Potato Chickpea Tray:

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Balsamic vinegar for drizzling (optional)

Make sure to measure your spices accurately for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Roasted Sweet Potato Chickpea Tray:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure the sweet potatoes roast evenly.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes and Chickpeas

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes and chickpeas. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.

Roast the Mixture

Spread the sweet potato and chickpea mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar if desired. Toss with fresh parsley before serving.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips

For added crunch, you can sprinkle some pumpkin seeds or nuts on top before serving.

Spice Variations

While smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor, feel free to experiment with different spices based on your preference. Cumin adds an earthy undertone that works well with sweet potatoes, while curry powder introduces a warm, aromatic bouquet. If you're a fan of heat, adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can give the dish a delightful kick.

For an international twist, consider incorporating herbs like rosemary or thyme. These herbs can complement the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully and add a fresh aromatic quality to the dish. Adjust the amount according to your taste; starting with half a teaspoon is a good baseline.

Dietary Adjustments

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. To make it vegan-friendly, simply ensure that any accompaniments, such as sauces or dips, are plant-based. You can also easily modify the protein content; if you prefer to omit chickpeas, try adding lentils or black beans for an alternative source of protein and heartiness.

If you're looking to cut down on calories or fat, you can reduce the amount of olive oil without compromising too much on flavor. A light spray of oil before roasting can still achieve some crispness while lowering the calorie content. Alternatively, using vegetable broth can help in maintaining moisture.

Make-Ahead Options

This tray bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can dice the sweet potatoes and rinse the chickpeas the day before, keeping them stored in the fridge until you're ready to roast. This not only saves time but also helps enhance the flavors when they marinate in the spices longer.

If you're looking to freeze leftovers, make sure to let them cool completely before transfering to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven to maintain texture rather than the microwave, which may lead them to become mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables in this tray?

Absolutely! You can mix in bell peppers, zucchini, or even Brussels sprouts.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making it perfect for vegans.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day ahead and roast them right before serving.