Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that won't leave you feeling hungry? Look no further than our Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl! Packed with flavor and boasting a hearty serving size of 750 calories, this dish is sure to satisfy.
But don't just take our word for it - this dish is also loaded with health benefits. Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber, and the Middle Eastern spices used in this dish are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, it's vegan and Gluten-free!
If you're looking for a tasty way to fuel your body while also treating your taste buds, try out this Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl recipe today.
Recipe for Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl
To make this Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl, you will need: 1 can of Chickpeas, 1 cup of cooked quinoa, ½ cup of cherry tomatoes, ¼ cup of diced red onion, 2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley, 2 tsp of ground cumin, 1 tsp of smoked paprika, ½ tsp of ground turmeric, 1 lemon (juiced), 2 tbsp of olive oil, Salt and pepper to taste. 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chickpeas, quinoa, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. 2. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and spices. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ingredients used in Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl
The main ingredients in this dish include Chickpeas, quinoa, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, cumin, paprika, turmeric, lemon juice, and olive oil. Chickpeas are a great source of vegetarian protein, while quinoa provides additional protein as well as fiber and other essential nutrients. Cherry tomatoes and red onion add color and flavor, while parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note. The spices used in this dish are all common in Middle Eastern cuisine and add depth of flavor as well as potential health benefits. Lemon juice and olive oil serve as the base for the dressing, providing tanginess and richness, respectively.
Health benefits of Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl
As mentioned, this dish is packed with health benefits. Chickpeas, as a plant-based protein source, are a great choice for vegetarians and vegans. They're also high in fiber, which can help promote feelings of fullness as well as support digestive health. The spices used in this dish - cumin, paprika, and turmeric - are all known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic disease. Additionally, quinoa is a great source of complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies need but can't produce on their own. Consuming complete protein sources can help promote muscle growth and recovery.
Serving size and nutrition values of Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl
This recipe yields one serving of Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl, which contains approximately 750 calories. However, this dish is also high in protein and fiber - 25 grams and 19 grams, respectively - making it a satisfying and nutrient-dense meal option. Additionally, this dish is completely vegan and Gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. To further increase the nutrition of this dish, consider adding additional vegetables or toppings. You could add some roasted sweet potato or eggplant, top with a dollop of Hummus, or serve the bowl alongside a side salad for extra leafy greens.
How to make Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl
To make this Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl, start by gathering all of your ingredients. Drain and rinse the Chickpeas, and cook the quinoa according to package instructions. While the quinoa cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Whisk together the dressing ingredients - lemon juice, olive oil, and spices - in a separate bowl. Once the quinoa is cooked, add it to a large mixing bowl along with the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Alternative ingredients for Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl
While this recipe is delicious as-is, there are certainly options to mix it up or adapt to your personal tastes. Some ideas for alternative ingredients include: - Swap out the quinoa for brown rice, farro, or even couscous. - Add additional veggies, like roasted sweet potato, eggplant, or zucchini.
Possible side dishes that goes well with Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl
While this dish is a complete meal on its own, there are certainly side dishes or accompaniments that would complement it well. Here are a few ideas: - Serve the bowl alongside a simple side salad with a lemony vinaigrette. - Top the bowl with a dollop of Hummus or tahini.
Origins and history of Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl
While we can't confirm the exact origins of the Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl, we do know that Chickpeas - also known as garbanzo beans - have been a staple food in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions for thousands of years. In fact, the earliest known cultivation of chickpeas dates back to around 3000 BCE in what is now Turkey. Over time, chickpeas became a popular ingredient in dishes like Hummus, Falafel, and other Mediterranean and Middle Eastern favorites. The Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl is just another delicious adaptation of this versatile, protein-packed legume!
Variations of Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl
While the recipe provided here is a great place to start, there are certainly ways to tweak or adjust the dish to suit your preferences. Here are some potential variations to try out: - Swap out the Chickpeas for another type of bean, like black beans or white beans. - Add additional spice or heat by incorporating diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes.
FAQs on Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl
Q: Is this dish Gluten-free? A: Yes, this dish is completely gluten-free. Q: Can I meal prep this dish ahead of time?
FAQs About Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl
1. What is a Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl?
A Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl is a hearty and healthy dish made with Chickpeas, couscous, vegetables, and a variety of spices and herbs. It is a popular dish in Middle Eastern cuisine and is often served as a vegetarian or vegan option.
2. Is the Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl a healthy choice?
Yes, the Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl is a healthy choice as it is packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients. Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. However, the calorie count of 750 per serving may not be suitable for those on a low-calorie diet.
3. What are the key ingredients in a Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl?
The key ingredients in a Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl are cooked chickpeas, couscous, bell peppers, red onions, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The dish is often served with a side of Tahini sauce or yogurt for added flavor.
4. How is a Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl prepared?
A Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl is prepared by cooking the chickpeas and couscous separately, then combining them with the chopped vegetables and spices. The bowl is then topped with a garnish of chopped parsley and drizzled with tahini or yogurt sauce. The dish can be served warm or cold.
5. Can a Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl be customized?
Yes, a Middle Eastern Chickpea Bowl can be customized according to personal preferences. For example, some may prefer to add extra protein by adding grilled chicken or Falafel, while others may omit certain vegetables or spices based on taste. The dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit different dietary needs and preferences.