Roasted Spiced Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
This roasted cauliflower and chickpea salad is a flavorful and healthy side dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal. The cauliflower is roasted until tender and slightly browned, and the chickpeas add a boost of protein and fiber. The salad is seasoned with a blend of spices, including ancho chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle pepper powder, which gives it a smoky and slightly spicy flavor. Serve the salad warm or at room temperature.
I first came up with this recipe when I was looking for a way to use up some leftover cauliflower and chickpeas. I had been roasting cauliflower for a while, and I loved the way it caramelized and browned in the oven. I also loved the flavor of chickpeas, so I thought it would be great to combine the two. I started by simply roasting the cauliflower and chickpeas with some olive oil and salt and pepper. It was good, but it needed something more. I decided to add a blend of spices, including ancho chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle pepper powder. The spices gave the salad a smoky and slightly spicy flavor that really took it to the next level. I've been making this salad ever since, and it's always a hit with my family and friends. It's a great way to use up leftover vegetables, and it's also a healthy and delicious side dish.
Roasted Spiced Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad Roasted Spiced Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad Roasted Spiced Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad Roasted Spiced Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into small florets
  • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons ancho chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle pepper powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower, chickpeas, olive oil, ancho chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, chipotle pepper powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat.
  3. Spread the cauliflower mixture in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  4. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and slightly browned.
  5. Serve the roasted cauliflower salad warm or at room temperature.
Why It Works
  • Roasting the cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness and caramelizes the edges, giving it a slightly crispy texture.
  • The chickpeas add a boost of protein and fiber, making this salad a filling and satisfying meal.
  • The blend of spices gives the salad a smoky and slightly spicy flavor that is sure to please everyone.
  • This salad is a great way to use up leftover vegetables, and it's also a healthy and delicious side dish.