Baked Sweet Potatoes with Chickpeas and Tahini Dressing

 

## Baked Sweet Potatoes with Chickpeas and Tahini Dressing

Baked sweet potatoes topped with chickpeas and a creamy tahini dressing create a delicious and nutritious meal that is both filling and satisfying. This dish is rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. Below is a detailed recipe to help you prepare this wholesome meal.

### Ingredients

- **Sweet Potatoes**: 2 large (about 1 pound each)

- **Canned Chickpeas**: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed

- **Tahini**: 1/4 cup

- **Lemon Juice**: 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)

- **Garlic**: 2 cloves (minced)

- **Salt**: to taste

- **Pepper**: to taste

- **Olive Oil**: 1 tablespoon (optional, for roasting chickpeas)

- **Paprika or Cumin (optional)**: for seasoning the chickpeas

### Benefits

- **High in Fiber**: Sweet potatoes and chickpeas are excellent sources of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full.

- **Rich in Vitamins**: Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin A (beta-carotene) and vitamin C, which support immune function and skin health.

- **Plant-Based Protein**: Chickpeas provide a good source of plant-based protein, making this dish suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

- **Healthy Fats**: Tahini contributes healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. **Wash the Sweet Potatoes**: Rinse the sweet potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel.

3. **Pierce the Potatoes**: Using a fork, pierce each sweet potato several times on all sides. This allows steam to escape during baking.

4. **Bake the Sweet Potatoes**: Place the sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Chickpeas

1. **Drain and Rinse**: While the sweet potatoes are baking, drain and rinse the canned chickpeas under cold water.

2. **Season the Chickpeas (Optional)**: If desired, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices like paprika or cumin in a bowl.

3. **Roast the Chickpeas**: Spread the seasoned chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, shaking the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking.

#### Step 3: Make the Tahini Dressing

1. **Combine Ingredients**: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. 

2. **Add Water as Needed**: If the dressing is too thick, gradually add water (1 tablespoon at a time) until you reach your desired consistency. The dressing should be creamy but pourable.

#### Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. **Check Sweet Potatoes**: Once baked, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes until they are manageable.

2. **Slice Open the Sweet Potatoes**: Carefully slice each sweet potato lengthwise down the center without cutting all the way through. Gently fluff the insides with a fork to create space for toppings.

3. **Top with Chickpeas**: Spoon roasted chickpeas generously over each baked sweet potato.

4. **Drizzle with Tahini Dressing**: Drizzle the tahini dressing over the top of each stuffed sweet potato.

5. **Garnish (Optional)**: For added flavor, consider garnishing with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.

### Step 5: Serve

Serve your baked sweet potatoes warm as a hearty main dish or as part of a larger meal alongside salads or roasted vegetables.

### Enjoy!

This Baked Sweet Potatoes with Chickpeas and Tahini Dressing dish is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying and versatile. It’s perfect for meal prep or as a comforting dinner option!

### Variations

- **Add Greens**: Top with fresh spinach or arugula for an extra nutrient boost.

- **Spice It Up**: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to your tahini dressing for some heat.

- **Different Toppings**: Consider adding avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or pickled red onions for additional flavor and texture.

- **Sweet Potato Variants**: Try using other types of sweet potatoes or even regular potatoes for different flavors.

Enjoy this nourishing meal that combines wholesome ingredients into one delicious dish!