Harvest Glow Salad: Roasted Chickpea & Sweet Potato Symphony

A hearty and colorful salad that's perfect for any meal, featuring roasted sweet potatoes and spiced chickpeas atop a bed of fresh mixed greens, complemented by a creamy lemon-tahini dressing. This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a holistic health-focused diet.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained, rinsed, and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2-4 tablespoons water (to thin the dressing)
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (optional, for crunch)

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories: 350 per serving
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 16g (healthy fats from tahini and olive oil)
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Vitamin A: 120% DV
  • Vitamin C: 30% DV

Instructions:

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes until tender.
  • On another baking sheet, toss chickpeas with smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, pepper, and remaining olive oil. Roast in the oven alongside sweet potatoes for 20 minutes until crispy.
  • For the dressing, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and water until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • In a large bowl, combine roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and mixed greens. Drizzle with lemon-tahini dressing and toss to coat evenly.
  • Serve the salad sprinkled with pumpkin seeds for added texture, if desired.

Mind, Body, & Spirit Connection:

  • Mind: The vibrant colors and diverse textures in this salad stimulate the senses, encouraging a mindful eating experience.
  • Body: Rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, this salad supports physical health and energy levels.
  • Spirit: The process of roasting and assembling the salad can be a meditative practice, promoting a sense of accomplishment and well-being.