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Balancing Bowls
Balancing BowlsVerified

January 29, 2026

I love a good sheet pan recipe, and this one might just be my favorite. The combination of roasted cauliflower, za'atar, chickpeas, and caramelized red onions hits all the right notes-savory, herby, and just the right amount of crispy around the edges. I've made this salad more times than I can count, and it always delivers.

Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad
Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad cover
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From the Cook
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Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad

Ingredients

Wheat and 3 other allergens identified

Instructions

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Instructions

1
|
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. (Or use two smaller ones if you don't have an extra-large pan.)
2
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Add the cauliflower florets, drained and patted-dry chickpeas, and sliced red onion directly onto a parchment-lined sheet pan (or divide between two smaller pans if needed). Drizzle everything with 6 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of Za'atar. Use your hands or a spatula to toss everything together right on the pan until evenly coated.
3
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Roast for 25 minutes, until the cauliflower is browned and the chickpeas are crispy.
4
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Meanwhile, whisk the tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup (or honey), cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Slowly stir in 4 to 5 tablespoons of ice water until smooth.
5
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To serve, layer arugula on a serving platter, top with roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, and onion. Drizzle with tahini sauce, garnish with fresh parsley, and if you like a little heat, add a few pickled Fresno pepper slices on top.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

  • Za'atar Magic 🌿
    Toast za'atar spice blend in a dry skillet for 30-45 seconds before sprinkling to intensify its aromatic oils and deepen the flavor profile.
  • Crispy Cauliflower Technique 🥦
    Pat cauliflower florets completely dry before roasting and use a large sheet pan with space between pieces to ensure maximum caramelization and crispy edges.
  • Chickpea Prep Pro 🫘
    Thoroughly dry canned chickpeas with a clean kitchen towel and toss with a light coating of olive oil to help them achieve a perfect crispy exterior during roasting.
  • Tahini Dressing Hack 🥄
    Whisk tahini dressing ingredients at room temperature and add ice water gradually to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • Pickled Pepper Balance 🌶️
    Slice Fresno peppers thinly and let them marinate in a bit of lemon juice before serving to mellow their heat and add bright acidity to the salad.

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About the Cook

Balancing Bowls

I'm Nora! Balancing Bowls is the product of a slightly chaotic life, a need to make and grow things, and a love of creative cooking. If you're here because you're trying to feed your family well without losing your mind, you're in the right place.

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