Honey Roasted Carrot Chickpea Tray

Name: Honey Roasted Carrot Chickpea Tray
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Ideas

I love how simple yet delicious this Honey Roasted Carrot Chickpea Tray is. Roasting the carrots brings out their natural sweetness, while the chickpeas add a satisfying crunch and protein boost. Combining these ingredients with honey and spices creates a warm, inviting dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe came about during a week when I was craving something healthy yet flavorful, and the outcome was nothing short of amazing! Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your weekly meal prep.

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:05:35.453Z

I can still remember the first time I made this Honey Roasted Carrot Chickpea Tray. Each bite burst with flavor, and the aroma filled my kitchen so invitingly. I quickly realized that roasting is a game-changer when it comes to vegetables—it enhances their natural sweetness and transforms their texture. The combination of honey and a sprinkle of salt elevates the dish from simple to spectacular.

Another tip I found was to drain and rinse the chickpeas well before tossing them with honey and spices. This step not only helps in getting rid of excess sodium but also ensures that they roast beautifully and don’t turn mushy. Pair this dish with a side salad, and you have a wholesome meal that everyone will love!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The natural sweetness of roasted carrots pairs perfectly with nutty chickpeas.
A delightful blend of honey and spices creates a mouthwatering glaze.
Easily adaptable with your choice of vegetables or herbs.

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish, the carrots, are not only colorful but also packed with nutrients like beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in your body. Choosing fresh, firm carrots ensures a satisfying crunch when roasted. Look for carrots that are vibrant in color and not too thin; thicker ones will take longer to cook but will offer a heartier texture, enhancing the dish's overall robustness.

Chickpeas bring a wonderful nuttiness and a protein punch to this recipe. Using canned chickpeas makes prep easy, but if you're looking for a fresher option, consider cooking dried chickpeas. Just soak them overnight and boil until tender. Be sure to dry them well before mixing with the other ingredients to avoid a soggy texture; this will help them crisp up in the oven.

Perfecting the Roast

Achieving the perfect roast is all about timing. Once the carrots and chickpeas are in the oven, keep an eye on them; after around 20 minutes, give them a gentle toss to ensure even caramelization. You want the carrots to become tender while the edges turn golden and slightly crisp, releasing their natural sugars, which creates that delicious glaze we're after.

If you find your carrots browning too quickly, consider covering the tray with foil for part of the roasting time. This will help them cook through without burning. Conversely, if you prefer less caramelization, check them a few minutes earlier. The ideal outcome is a mix of tender and slightly crispy pieces, enhancing both the flavor and texture of the dish.

Ingredients

For the Honey Roasted Carrot Chickpea Tray

4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix all the ingredients well to ensure even coating.

Instructions

Preheat your oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Prepare the vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the sliced carrots and chickpeas. Drizzle with honey and olive oil, and sprinkle with cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.

Roast the tray

Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking tray. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until carrots are tender and slightly caramelized.

Garnish and serve

Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Honey Roasted Carrot Chickpea Tray!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the chickpea mix.

Serving Suggestions

This Honey Roasted Carrot Chickpea Tray makes an excellent side dish, but it can easily be transformed into a main course by serving it atop a bed of quinoa or mixed greens. The earthy flavors pair beautifully with a tangy yogurt sauce or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to enhance the sweetness of the carrots.

For elevated presentation, you might consider adding feta cheese or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds just before serving. Their acidity and pop of flavor will contrast nicely with the sweetness of the dish, creating a balance that your guests will surely love.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, the roasted carrots and chickpeas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave to restore some of that delightful texture. Just keep in mind that reheating may soften the chickpeas slightly, so try not to overcook them when reheating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the roasted mixture. Spread them out on a baking tray to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can easily take out portions without having to defrost the whole batch, keeping your meal prep flexible and efficient.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for variety.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan since it contains only plant-based ingredients.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as all the ingredients used are free from gluten.