Moro’s Warm Squash & Chickpea Salad with Tahini: A Comforting, Nutrient-Packed Delight

If you’re craving a satisfying and hearty meal that’s both flavorful and nourishing, Moro’s Warm Squash & Chickpea Salad with Tahini is an ideal choice. This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted squash with the earthiness of chickpeas, all balanced by the creamy richness of tahini. The dish is loaded with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it the perfect choice for a balanced lunch or dinner. It’s both vegan and gluten-free, offering a healthful and comforting meal option for a variety of diets.

The benefits of this dish go beyond its delicious taste. Squash is rich in vitamins A and C, promoting immune health and radiant skin, while chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, which help to support digestion and keep you feeling full. Tahini, made from sesame seeds, offers healthy fats, iron, and calcium, making this dish as nutritious as it is satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself or serving it to guests, this warm salad is a great way to enjoy wholesome, nourishing ingredients.

Serving Size and Preparation Time

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Salad:
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon pomegranate seeds (optional, for garnish)
• For the Tahini Dressing:
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
  • 2-3 tablespoons warm water (to thin)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Roast the Squash and Chickpeas

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash and chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized, and the chickpeas are crispy.

2. Make the Tahini Dressing

While the squash and chickpeas are roasting, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup (or honey), minced garlic, and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Add warm water one tablespoon at a time until the dressing reaches a smooth and pourable consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Assemble the Salad

Once the squash and chickpeas are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. In a large salad bowl, combine the roasted squash and chickpeas. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the warm vegetables and toss gently to combine.

4. Serve and Garnish

Serve the salad warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh parsley and pomegranate seeds, if using. The tahini dressing adds a rich and creamy element that ties all the flavors together.

Tips for the Perfect Warm Squash & Chickpea Salad

• Choose the Right Squash: While butternut squash is the star of this salad, you can substitute it with other types of squash like acorn or kabocha. Each variety will bring a slightly different flavor and texture to the dish, so feel free to experiment based on what you have available.

• Make it More Filling: If you’re looking to make this salad even heartier, consider adding a handful of cooked quinoa or couscous for added texture and protein. You could also toss in some fresh greens like spinach or arugula to add extra vitamins.

• Make Ahead: The roasted squash and chickpeas can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tahini dressing can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. When ready to serve, simply reheat the squash and chickpeas and toss with the dressing.

• For Extra Flavor: If you like your salad with a bit more heat, try adding a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of harissa sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick. This will elevate the dish and give it a whole new layer of flavor.

• Customize to Your Taste: “Dilerseniz damak zevkinize göre kendiniz küçük malzeme ilaveleri veya çıkarmalar yapabilirsiniz.” Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you enjoy. You can add roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or cauliflower, or swap the chickpeas for lentils or roasted nuts for a crunchy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moro’s Warm Squash & Chickpea Salad with Tahini is the perfect balance of rich flavors and textures. The warmth of the roasted squash and chickpeas pairs beautifully with the smooth, creamy tahini dressing, while the spices add a hint of sweetness and warmth. It’s a great dish to serve at gatherings, and it works wonderfully as a meal on its own or as a side. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein, this salad is not only comforting but also incredibly good for you.

Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to impress. And with its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.