This za'atar spiced chickpea and sweet potato salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The sweet potatoes are roasted until tender and slightly caramelized, while the chickpeas add a hearty and protein-packed element. The red onion provides a bit of sharpness, while the fresh parsley and mint add brightness and freshness. The za'atar spice blend, a Middle Eastern blend of herbs and spices, adds a complex and earthy flavor to the salad. This salad is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. For example, you can add more or less za'atar spice blend, depending on how strong you like the flavor. You can also add other vegetables to the salad, such as chopped cucumbers or tomatoes.
The origins of this za'atar spiced chickpea and sweet potato salad are shrouded in mystery. Some say that it was created by a group of nomadic Bedouins who were traveling through the Middle East. Others claim that it was invented by a group of farmers who were looking for a way to use up their surplus sweet potatoes. Whatever its origins, this salad has become a popular dish throughout the region. It is often served as a side dish or as a light lunch or dinner. This salad is a great way to use up leftover sweet potatoes. It is also a healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons za'atar spice blend
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
Toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, red onion, parsley, mint, and roasted sweet potatoes.
In a small bowl, whisk together remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, and za'atar spice blend. Pour over salad and toss to coat.
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Why It Works
The combination of sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and red onion creates a balance of flavors and textures.
The za'atar spice blend adds a complex and earthy flavor to the salad.
The fresh parsley and mint add brightness and freshness to the salad.
This salad is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences.