FREE DINNER EBOOK! Get your copy!

Chickpea Shawarma Bowl Tasty and Nutritious Meal

by on September 30, 2025

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a tasty and nutritious meal? Try my Chickpea Shawarma Bowl! This plant-based dish packs a flavorful punch with roasted chickpeas and fresh toppings. It’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep. In this article, I’ll guide you through essential ingredients, simple cooking steps, and handy tips for the best flavor. Let’s dive into creating a bowl that’s both satisfying and good for you!

To make a Chickpea Shawarma Bowl, you'll need the following key ingredients: - 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 cup cooked quinoa or bulgur - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cucumber, diced - 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced - 1 avocado, sliced - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped These ingredients form the base of your dish. The chickpeas are the star, providing protein and texture. Quinoa or bulgur adds a hearty grain base, while the vegetables bring freshness and color. Seasoning is key to bringing flavor to your bowl. Here's what you'll need: - 2 teaspoons ground cumin - 2 teaspoons ground coriander - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) - Salt and pepper to taste These spices create that warm, savory shawarma flavor. Adjust the cayenne for heat. Remember, balance is key. For added flavor and texture, consider these optional toppings: - 1/4 cup tahini sauce (store-bought or homemade) - Juice of 1 lemon Tahini sauce adds creaminess and richness. A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish. You can also add extras like feta or olives for a twist. Enjoy making this healthy and tasty meal! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab a can of chickpeas, drain it, and rinse them well. In a bowl, mix the chickpeas with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Then, add the spices: 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 2 teaspoons of ground coriander, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to taste. Add salt and pepper as you like. Toss everything together until the chickpeas are well coated in the spices. Spread the seasoned chickpeas out on a baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer for even roasting. Place them in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Shake the pan halfway through to help them cook evenly. You want them to be crispy and golden. This step makes the chickpeas crunchy and adds great flavor. While the chickpeas roast, you can cook your base. Use 1 cup of quinoa or bulgur. Follow the package instructions for cooking. Once it’s done, fluff it with a fork and set it aside. This base will soak up all the delicious flavors from the chickpeas and toppings. It’s a great way to add texture and nutrition to your bowl. To boost the flavor of your chickpea shawarma bowl, use fresh spices. Fresh spices have more aroma and taste. When roasting the chickpeas, make sure to coat them evenly with oil and spices. This helps each bite pack a punch. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors even more. For extra zest, try adding lemon zest along with the juice. It lifts the dish with a bright taste. A well-presented dish makes meals more enjoyable. Serve your chickpea shawarma bowl in clear bowls to show off the colors. Arrange each ingredient in sections for a vibrant look. Place the crispy chickpeas in the center, then add the colorful veggies around them. Drizzle the tahini sauce over the top just before serving. Add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh touch. A sprinkle of smoked paprika on top gives a nice finish. If you have leftovers, store them properly to keep them fresh. Place the chickpeas and quinoa in separate airtight containers. This keeps them from getting soggy. Store chopped veggies in another container. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat the chickpeas and quinoa. Add fresh veggies and tahini sauce just before serving. This helps maintain the crunch and flavor. Enjoy your meal throughout the week! Pro Tips Perfectly Crispy Chickpeas: To achieve the best texture, ensure that the chickpeas are thoroughly dried after rinsing. Pat them down with a kitchen towel before tossing with oil and spices. Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the chickpea mixture according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or turmeric can elevate the flavor profile. Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs for the best flavor. This will enhance the freshness of the bowl and make every bite enjoyable. Make Ahead: You can prepare the chickpeas and quinoa in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble the bowls just before serving for the best texture and taste. {{image_2}} If you want to keep it vegan, you have many choices. You can swap the tahini sauce for a homemade vegan yogurt. This adds creaminess without losing flavor. Or, try using a store-bought vegan dressing. Just look for one that is nut-free if needed. Feel free to mix in different veggies. Roasted bell peppers add sweetness and color. For crunch, add radishes or shredded carrots. You can also use spinach or kale for extra greens. Each vegetable changes the taste and makes the bowl more colorful. Want more protein? Add grilled tofu or tempeh. You can also toss in some roasted nuts or seeds. Chickpeas are great, but adding these options boosts nutrition. If you're not vegan, grilled chicken or shrimp works well too. Just remember to keep the flavors balanced for a tasty bowl. Each serving of the Chickpea Shawarma Bowl packs a punch. Here's what you get: - Calories: About 450 - Protein: 15 grams - Carbohydrates: 60 grams - Fiber: 12 grams - Fat: 18 grams This bowl gives you a balanced meal. It has protein from chickpeas and healthy fats from olive oil and avocado. Chickpeas are more than tasty; they are great for your health. Here are some benefits: - Rich in Fiber: This helps with digestion and keeps you full. - Protein Power: Chickpeas are a great plant-based protein source. - Low Glycemic Index: They help control blood sugar levels. - Packed with Nutrients: They have vitamins like B6 and minerals like iron, which are good for your body. Eating chickpeas can support weight loss and improve heart health. They are a smart choice for anyone wanting to eat better. When making the Chickpea Shawarma Bowl, pay attention to calories. Each ingredient adds up. For example, olive oil and tahini are higher in calories, but they provide healthy fats. If you're watching your intake, adjust the amounts. Use less oil or tahini if you want fewer calories. Enjoy this meal while being mindful of your choices. Yes, you can prepare many parts ahead of time. Cook the quinoa or bulgur and store it in the fridge. You can roast the chickpeas and keep them in a sealed container. Just wait to add fresh veggies and tahini until you serve. This keeps everything fresh and tasty. If you don’t have tahini, you can use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter. You can also make a simple yogurt sauce with plain yogurt and lemon juice. This will still give you a creamy texture and a nice flavor. Serve your bowl with a base of quinoa or bulgur. Top it with the crispy chickpeas and fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Drizzle tahini sauce on top and squeeze fresh lemon juice for a bright taste. Add lemon wedges on the side for extra zing. You now have all the details to create a delicious Chickpea Shawarma Bowl. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and smart tips for the best taste. Remember, cooking is a fun way to explore flavors and make healthy meals. Feel free to customize the bowl to fit your tastes. Whether you're adding vegan options or new veggies, the choices are endless. Enjoy crafting your tasty creation and share what you make!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful Spices: The combination of cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika creates a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the humble chickpeas.
  2. Healthy Ingredients: This bowl is packed with nutritious ingredients like quinoa, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats from avocado, making it a wholesome meal.
  3. Quick & Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple cooking steps, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings and spices according to your preference, making it a versatile dish that caters to different tastes.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Chickpea Shawarma Bowl

To make a Chickpea Shawarma Bowl, you’ll need the following key ingredients:

– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 cup cooked quinoa or bulgur

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1 cucumber, diced

– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

– 1 avocado, sliced

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

These ingredients form the base of your dish. The chickpeas are the star, providing protein and texture. Quinoa or bulgur adds a hearty grain base, while the vegetables bring freshness and color.

Recommended Seasonings

Seasoning is key to bringing flavor to your bowl. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 2 teaspoons ground cumin

– 2 teaspoons ground coriander

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

– Salt and pepper to taste

These spices create that warm, savory shawarma flavor. Adjust the cayenne for heat. Remember, balance is key.

Optional Toppings

For added flavor and texture, consider these optional toppings:

– 1/4 cup tahini sauce (store-bought or homemade)

– Juice of 1 lemon

Tahini sauce adds creaminess and richness. A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish. You can also add extras like feta or olives for a twist. Enjoy making this healthy and tasty meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chickpeas

To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab a can of chickpeas, drain it, and rinse them well. In a bowl, mix the chickpeas with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Then, add the spices: 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 2 teaspoons of ground coriander, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to taste. Add salt and pepper as you like. Toss everything together until the chickpeas are well coated in the spices.

How to Roast Chickpeas for Maximum Crispiness

Spread the seasoned chickpeas out on a baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer for even roasting. Place them in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Shake the pan halfway through to help them cook evenly. You want them to be crispy and golden. This step makes the chickpeas crunchy and adds great flavor.

Cooking Quinoa or Bulgur

While the chickpeas roast, you can cook your base. Use 1 cup of quinoa or bulgur. Follow the package instructions for cooking. Once it’s done, fluff it with a fork and set it aside. This base will soak up all the delicious flavors from the chickpeas and toppings. It’s a great way to add texture and nutrition to your bowl.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Flavor Enhancement

To boost the flavor of your chickpea shawarma bowl, use fresh spices. Fresh spices have more aroma and taste. When roasting the chickpeas, make sure to coat them evenly with oil and spices. This helps each bite pack a punch. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors even more. For extra zest, try adding lemon zest along with the juice. It lifts the dish with a bright taste.

Presentation Tips for Serving

A well-presented dish makes meals more enjoyable. Serve your chickpea shawarma bowl in clear bowls to show off the colors. Arrange each ingredient in sections for a vibrant look. Place the crispy chickpeas in the center, then add the colorful veggies around them. Drizzle the tahini sauce over the top just before serving. Add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh touch. A sprinkle of smoked paprika on top gives a nice finish.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them properly to keep them fresh. Place the chickpeas and quinoa in separate airtight containers. This keeps them from getting soggy. Store chopped veggies in another container. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the chickpeas and quinoa. Add fresh veggies and tahini sauce just before serving. This helps maintain the crunch and flavor. Enjoy your meal throughout the week!

Pro Tips

  1. Perfectly Crispy Chickpeas: To achieve the best texture, ensure that the chickpeas are thoroughly dried after rinsing. Pat them down with a kitchen towel before tossing with oil and spices.
  2. Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the chickpea mixture according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or turmeric can elevate the flavor profile.
  3. Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs for the best flavor. This will enhance the freshness of the bowl and make every bite enjoyable.
  4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the chickpeas and quinoa in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble the bowls just before serving for the best texture and taste.

Variations

Vegan Alternatives

If you want to keep it vegan, you have many choices. You can swap the tahini sauce for a homemade vegan yogurt. This adds creaminess without losing flavor. Or, try using a store-bought vegan dressing. Just look for one that is nut-free if needed.

Adding Different Vegetables

Feel free to mix in different veggies. Roasted bell peppers add sweetness and color. For crunch, add radishes or shredded carrots. You can also use spinach or kale for extra greens. Each vegetable changes the taste and makes the bowl more colorful.

Protein Add-Ins Options

Want more protein? Add grilled tofu or tempeh. You can also toss in some roasted nuts or seeds. Chickpeas are great, but adding these options boosts nutrition. If you’re not vegan, grilled chicken or shrimp works well too. Just remember to keep the flavors balanced for a tasty bowl.

Nutritional Information

Nutritional Breakdown per Serving

Each serving of the Chickpea Shawarma Bowl packs a punch. Here’s what you get:

– Calories: About 450

– Protein: 15 grams

– Carbohydrates: 60 grams

– Fiber: 12 grams

– Fat: 18 grams

This bowl gives you a balanced meal. It has protein from chickpeas and healthy fats from olive oil and avocado.

Health Benefits of Chickpeas

Chickpeas are more than tasty; they are great for your health. Here are some benefits:

– Rich in Fiber: This helps with digestion and keeps you full.

– Protein Power: Chickpeas are a great plant-based protein source.

– Low Glycemic Index: They help control blood sugar levels.

– Packed with Nutrients: They have vitamins like B6 and minerals like iron, which are good for your body.

Eating chickpeas can support weight loss and improve heart health. They are a smart choice for anyone wanting to eat better.

Caloric Considerations

When making the Chickpea Shawarma Bowl, pay attention to calories. Each ingredient adds up. For example, olive oil and tahini are higher in calories, but they provide healthy fats. If you’re watching your intake, adjust the amounts. Use less oil or tahini if you want fewer calories. Enjoy this meal while being mindful of your choices.

FAQs

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare many parts ahead of time. Cook the quinoa or bulgur and store it in the fridge. You can roast the chickpeas and keep them in a sealed container. Just wait to add fresh veggies and tahini until you serve. This keeps everything fresh and tasty.

What can I use instead of tahini?

If you don’t have tahini, you can use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter. You can also make a simple yogurt sauce with plain yogurt and lemon juice. This will still give you a creamy texture and a nice flavor.

How do I serve the Chickpea Shawarma Bowl?

Serve your bowl with a base of quinoa or bulgur. Top it with the crispy chickpeas and fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Drizzle tahini sauce on top and squeeze fresh lemon juice for a bright taste. Add lemon wedges on the side for extra zing.

You now have all the details to create a delicious Chickpea Shawarma Bowl. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and smart tips for the best taste. Remember, cooking is a fun way to explore flavors and make healthy meals. Feel free to customize the bowl to fit your tastes. Whether you’re adding vegan options or new veggies, the choices are endless. Enjoy crafting your tasty creation and share what you mak

To make a Chickpea Shawarma Bowl, you'll need the following key ingredients: - 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 cup cooked quinoa or bulgur - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cucumber, diced - 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced - 1 avocado, sliced - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped These ingredients form the base of your dish. The chickpeas are the star, providing protein and texture. Quinoa or bulgur adds a hearty grain base, while the vegetables bring freshness and color. Seasoning is key to bringing flavor to your bowl. Here's what you'll need: - 2 teaspoons ground cumin - 2 teaspoons ground coriander - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) - Salt and pepper to taste These spices create that warm, savory shawarma flavor. Adjust the cayenne for heat. Remember, balance is key. For added flavor and texture, consider these optional toppings: - 1/4 cup tahini sauce (store-bought or homemade) - Juice of 1 lemon Tahini sauce adds creaminess and richness. A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish. You can also add extras like feta or olives for a twist. Enjoy making this healthy and tasty meal! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab a can of chickpeas, drain it, and rinse them well. In a bowl, mix the chickpeas with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Then, add the spices: 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 2 teaspoons of ground coriander, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to taste. Add salt and pepper as you like. Toss everything together until the chickpeas are well coated in the spices. Spread the seasoned chickpeas out on a baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer for even roasting. Place them in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Shake the pan halfway through to help them cook evenly. You want them to be crispy and golden. This step makes the chickpeas crunchy and adds great flavor. While the chickpeas roast, you can cook your base. Use 1 cup of quinoa or bulgur. Follow the package instructions for cooking. Once it’s done, fluff it with a fork and set it aside. This base will soak up all the delicious flavors from the chickpeas and toppings. It’s a great way to add texture and nutrition to your bowl. To boost the flavor of your chickpea shawarma bowl, use fresh spices. Fresh spices have more aroma and taste. When roasting the chickpeas, make sure to coat them evenly with oil and spices. This helps each bite pack a punch. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors even more. For extra zest, try adding lemon zest along with the juice. It lifts the dish with a bright taste. A well-presented dish makes meals more enjoyable. Serve your chickpea shawarma bowl in clear bowls to show off the colors. Arrange each ingredient in sections for a vibrant look. Place the crispy chickpeas in the center, then add the colorful veggies around them. Drizzle the tahini sauce over the top just before serving. Add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh touch. A sprinkle of smoked paprika on top gives a nice finish. If you have leftovers, store them properly to keep them fresh. Place the chickpeas and quinoa in separate airtight containers. This keeps them from getting soggy. Store chopped veggies in another container. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat the chickpeas and quinoa. Add fresh veggies and tahini sauce just before serving. This helps maintain the crunch and flavor. Enjoy your meal throughout the week! Pro Tips Perfectly Crispy Chickpeas: To achieve the best texture, ensure that the chickpeas are thoroughly dried after rinsing. Pat them down with a kitchen towel before tossing with oil and spices. Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the chickpea mixture according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or turmeric can elevate the flavor profile. Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs for the best flavor. This will enhance the freshness of the bowl and make every bite enjoyable. Make Ahead: You can prepare the chickpeas and quinoa in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble the bowls just before serving for the best texture and taste. {{image_2}} If you want to keep it vegan, you have many choices. You can swap the tahini sauce for a homemade vegan yogurt. This adds creaminess without losing flavor. Or, try using a store-bought vegan dressing. Just look for one that is nut-free if needed. Feel free to mix in different veggies. Roasted bell peppers add sweetness and color. For crunch, add radishes or shredded carrots. You can also use spinach or kale for extra greens. Each vegetable changes the taste and makes the bowl more colorful. Want more protein? Add grilled tofu or tempeh. You can also toss in some roasted nuts or seeds. Chickpeas are great, but adding these options boosts nutrition. If you're not vegan, grilled chicken or shrimp works well too. Just remember to keep the flavors balanced for a tasty bowl. Each serving of the Chickpea Shawarma Bowl packs a punch. Here's what you get: - Calories: About 450 - Protein: 15 grams - Carbohydrates: 60 grams - Fiber: 12 grams - Fat: 18 grams This bowl gives you a balanced meal. It has protein from chickpeas and healthy fats from olive oil and avocado. Chickpeas are more than tasty; they are great for your health. Here are some benefits: - Rich in Fiber: This helps with digestion and keeps you full. - Protein Power: Chickpeas are a great plant-based protein source. - Low Glycemic Index: They help control blood sugar levels. - Packed with Nutrients: They have vitamins like B6 and minerals like iron, which are good for your body. Eating chickpeas can support weight loss and improve heart health. They are a smart choice for anyone wanting to eat better. When making the Chickpea Shawarma Bowl, pay attention to calories. Each ingredient adds up. For example, olive oil and tahini are higher in calories, but they provide healthy fats. If you're watching your intake, adjust the amounts. Use less oil or tahini if you want fewer calories. Enjoy this meal while being mindful of your choices. Yes, you can prepare many parts ahead of time. Cook the quinoa or bulgur and store it in the fridge. You can roast the chickpeas and keep them in a sealed container. Just wait to add fresh veggies and tahini until you serve. This keeps everything fresh and tasty. If you don’t have tahini, you can use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter. You can also make a simple yogurt sauce with plain yogurt and lemon juice. This will still give you a creamy texture and a nice flavor. Serve your bowl with a base of quinoa or bulgur. Top it with the crispy chickpeas and fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Drizzle tahini sauce on top and squeeze fresh lemon juice for a bright taste. Add lemon wedges on the side for extra zing. You now have all the details to create a delicious Chickpea Shawarma Bowl. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and smart tips for the best taste. Remember, cooking is a fun way to explore flavors and make healthy meals. Feel free to customize the bowl to fit your tastes. Whether you're adding vegan options or new veggies, the choices are endless. Enjoy crafting your tasty creation and share what you make!

Chickpea Shawarma Bowl

A delicious and healthy bowl featuring roasted chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a creamy tahini sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 2
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or bulgur
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup tahini sauce
  • 1 lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, mix the drained chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well coated.
  • Spread the seasoned chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden, shaking the pan halfway through cooking time.
  • While the chickpeas roast, cook the quinoa or bulgur according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.
  • In the meantime, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado. Set aside.
  • In serving bowls, start with a generous scoop of the cooked quinoa or bulgur as the base.
  • Top the base with the crispy chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and avocado.
  • Drizzle the tahini sauce over the top generously and sprinkle fresh parsley over the bowl for added flavor and color.
  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the entire bowl to brighten up the flavors.

Notes

Serve the bowls with extra lemon wedges on the side and arrange the ingredients in sections for a colorful display.
Keyword bowl, chickpeas, healthy, Mediterranean, vegan

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?