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Roasted Eggplant, Chickpea, and Quinoa Salad with Tahini Dressing

Roasted Eggplant, Chickpea, and Quinoa Salad with Tahini Dressing is a delicious and hearty dish packed with flavor and nutrition. This salad combines tender roasted eggplant, protein-rich chickpeas, and wholesome quinoa, all brought together with a creamy tahini dressing. It’s perfect as a main dish or a side dish, making it a versatile addition to your meal routine.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only flavorful but also healthy. Eggplant is low in calories and full of fiber, while chickpeas and quinoa provide essential protein and nutrients. The tahini dressing adds a nutty flavor and creamy texture without dairy. This salad is great for meal prep, can be served warm or cold, and is a great way to incorporate more vegetables and plant-based proteins into your diet. Whether you want a filling lunch or a side at dinner, this salad is an excellent choice!

How to Make Roasted Eggplant, Chickpea, and Quinoa Salad with Tahini Dressing

Ingredients

1 large eggplant, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons water
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, toss cubed eggplant with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread the eggplant in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly browned, flipping halfway through.
In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency.
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, red onion, parsley, and roasted eggplant. If using, add feta cheese.
Pour the tahini dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or chill for later. Garnish with extra parsley or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

How to Serve Roasted Eggplant, Chickpea, and Quinoa Salad with Tahini Dressing

This salad can be enjoyed warm right after making it or served cold after a few hours in the refrigerator. It makes a wonderful lunch or light dinner. You can serve it on its own or alongside grilled meats or bread for a more filling meal.

How to Store Roasted Eggplant, Chickpea, and Quinoa Salad with Tahini Dressing

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the eggplant may soften further in the fridge, so if you prefer a firmer texture, enjoy the salad the same day you make it.

Tips to Make Roasted Eggplant, Chickpea, and Quinoa Salad with Tahini Dressing

To make meal prep easier, roast the eggplant and cook the quinoa ahead of time.
Adjust the seasoning and tahini dressing according to your taste. You can add more garlic or lemon juice if you like a stronger flavor.
For added crunch, consider adding nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds or sliced almonds.

Variation

You can easily customize this salad by adding other roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also switch out the chickpeas for black beans or white beans for a different flavor profile. To add some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the salad ahead of time. It tastes great when chilled, and the flavors meld together after a few hours in the fridge.
Is the tahini dressing vegan?
Yes, the tahini dressing is vegan, as it does not contain any animal products.
What can I use instead of tahini?
If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute it with peanut butter or a nut-based dressing for a different flavor.

Enjoy creating this delightful Roasted Eggplant, Chickpea, and Quinoa Salad with Tahini Dressing! It’s simple to make and will surely impress your family and friends.