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These roasted beet chickpea wraps combine earthy, sweet beets with crispy spiced chickpeas and a bright tahini-lemon sauce for a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and vibrant. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, they bring Mediterranean flavors into a simple handheld wrap that is as colorful as it is delicious.
I first made these on a busy weeknight when I wanted something wholesome but fast. Now they have become a go-to crowd pleaser that everyone asks for at home.
Ingredients
- Two medium beets: peeled and diced into 1.25-centimeter cubes for even roasting and natural sweetness
- Four hundred grams canned chickpeas: drained, rinsed, and dried thoroughly to help crisp them up in the oven
- Extra-virgin olive oil: to add richness and aid in roasting the vegetables and chickpeas evenly
- Ground cumin: provides earthy warmth that complements the beets and chickpeas perfectly
- Smoked paprika: introduces a subtle, smoky depth to elevate the flavor
- Garlic powder: gives a gentle garlicky base without overpowering the delicate beet flavor
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: balance and enhance all the components
- Tahini: which adds creaminess and nutty richness essential for the sauce
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: for a bright acidity that cuts through the richness
- Maple syrup or honey: to gently balance the lemon’s sharpness if you like a hint of sweetness
- Whole wheat or plain flour tortillas: (gluten-free wraps work too) give the wraps structure and are easy to roll
- Shredded lettuce or salad greens: provide a crisp, fresh crunch
- Shredded carrots and thin cucumber strips: add texture and vibrant color
- Pickled onions or red cabbage: are optional but bring a nice tangy contrast
- Fresh parsley, mint, or coriander leaves: offer aromatic freshness and a herbaceous finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Roast Roasted Beets and Chickpeas:
- Set your oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Combine diced beets and dried chickpeas in a bowl with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss well so everything is evenly coated. Spread the mix in a single layer on parchment-lined baking tray. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through until the beets are tender and chickpeas golden and crisp. This roasting develops deep flavor and the perfect texture.
- Prepare the Tahini-Lemon Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk tahini, lemon juice, finely grated garlic, and optional maple syrup or honey until smooth. Slowly add warm water a little at a time, whisking continuously until the sauce reaches a silky, pourable consistency. Taste and adjust salt if needed. This sauce is the star that ties all the ingredients together with bright creaminess.
- Warm and Assemble the Wraps:
- Gently warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable so they fold easily without cracking. Lay down some shredded lettuce or greens on each wrap. Add a generous layer of the roasted beet and chickpea mixture. Top with shredded carrots, cucumber strips, and pickled onions or red cabbage if you like that tang. Drizzle on the tahini-lemon sauce and finish with fresh herbs such as parsley or coriander for a burst of freshness. Roll up tightly or fold and serve straight away to enjoy the contrast of flavors and textures.
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I always look forward to the fragrant roasted cumin and smoky paprika notes that create a comforting yet exciting flavor profile in these wraps. The first time I served this at a family picnic, everyone loved how fresh and satisfying it was, even my picky eaters asked for second helpings.
Storage Tips
These wraps are best eaten fresh but you can keep the roasted beet and chickpea mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or a skillet to preserve crispness. Keep the sauce separate until ready to serve to avoid sogginess. Leftover fillings also make a great addition to grain bowls or salads.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer, swap beets for sweet potatoes or carrots for a milder roasted vegetable flavor. Canned chickpeas can be replaced with roasted white beans or lentils. Tahini can be substituted with almond or cashew butter blended with lemon juice for a nutty twist. Instead of tortillas, sturdy large lettuce leaves or collard greens work well for a low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these wraps with a side of tabbouleh salad or roasted vegetable couscous to complement the Mediterranean theme. A light soup or a crisp glass of white wine pairs beautifully. Adding avocado slices or a smear of hummus inside brings creamy texture and richness. For a spicy kick try adding harissa or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
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Cultural Context
This wrap captures Mediterranean flavors marked by fresh herbs, lemon, and tahini that are staples in Middle Eastern and North African cuisines. Roasted chickpeas are a popular snack across these regions, valued for their crunch and nutrition. Combining earthy beets with vibrant sauces in portable wraps reflects the modern fusion approach to traditional ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I get chickpeas crispy when roasting?
Make sure chickpeas are thoroughly dried before tossing with oil and spices. Roast them without crowding on the baking tray to allow even crisping and turn them halfway through cooking.
- → Can I use fresh beets instead of canned?
Yes, peeling and dicing fresh beets before roasting enhances their natural sweetness and texture, making them perfect for this dish.
- → What alternatives can I use for tahini in the sauce?
You can substitute tahini with sunflower seed butter or almond butter for a similar creamy consistency with a different flavor profile.
- → How can I add more acidity to the wrap?
Including pickled onions or red cabbage adds a sharp, tangy note that brightens the overall flavor balance.
- → Are these wraps suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, by choosing certified gluten-free wraps or tortillas, the dish remains gluten-free without compromising texture.
- → Can I prepare the components in advance?
Roasted beets and chickpeas can be made ahead and stored refrigerated. Assemble wraps just before serving to keep veggies crisp and tortillas pliable.