Roasted Vegetables with Tahini Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is an excellent choice for anyone looking to eat more vegetables while indulging in a rich, satisfying dish. The roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and depth of flavor, while the tahini sauce adds a creamy texture and tangy kick. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just preparing a cozy meal for yourself, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. The addition of pine nuts, za’atar, and parsley creates delightful contrasts in flavor and texture.

Ingredients

• 8–10 cups chopped veggies (see above for options)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp tahini
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 4 tbsp water (+ more if too thick)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3 1/2 tbsp pine nuts
• 1 tbsp za’atar
• 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• Pinch of pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare your vegetables by chopping them into bite-sized pieces. Popular choices include carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, cauliflower, and sweet potatoes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil and season with a pinch of sea salt and pepper.
4. Spread the vegetables out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast the vegetables for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden and tender, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
6. While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the tahini sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and water. Add extra water if the sauce is too thick.
7. Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden and fragrant.
8. Once the vegetables are done roasting, drizzle the tahini sauce over them. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts, za’atar, and chopped parsley on top.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Options: Feel free to swap the vegetables according to your preferences or what’s in season. Butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, or beets are great alternatives.
• Tahini Sauce Variations: If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili flakes to the tahini sauce.
• Add Protein: To make this a heartier meal, consider adding roasted chickpeas, grilled chicken, or quinoa.
• Herb Variations: Fresh mint or cilantro can be substituted for parsley, depending on your taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tahini sauce may thicken in the fridge, so you can stir in a little water to loosen it when reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the vegetables in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can heat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Reheat the tahini sauce separately on the stove or in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use any vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a variety of vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes. Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand!

2. Is tahini sauce vegan?

Yes, tahini sauce is vegan and gluten-free, making it a perfect addition to plant-based meals.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can roast the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat and drizzle with tahini sauce and toppings.

4. Can I use store-bought tahini sauce instead of making my own?

Absolutely! Store-bought tahini sauce works just as well, although homemade tends to have a fresher flavor.

5. What is za’atar?

Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend that typically includes dried thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. It adds a unique tangy and earthy flavor to dishes.

6. How can I make the tahini sauce thinner?

If your tahini sauce is too thick, simply add more water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

7. Can I make this recipe without pine nuts?

Yes, if you don’t have pine nuts, you can substitute them with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.

8. Can I use a different type of nut for the topping?

Yes, you can use any type of nut you prefer. Walnuts or slivered almonds would also work well.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

10. Can I make this recipe spicy?

If you enjoy spicy foods, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the tahini sauce to give it an extra kick.

Conclusion

Roasted Vegetables with Tahini Sauce is a vibrant, flavorful dish that makes for a fantastic addition to any meal. The crispy, caramelized vegetables combined with the creamy tahini sauce and the crunchy pine nuts make every bite a delightful experience. This recipe is easy to customize, so feel free to experiment with different vegetables, nuts, and spices to suit your taste!

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