Chickpea Fajitas

Story behind the dish

Imagine the vibrant heat of a summer sunset mingling with the smoky aroma of roasted spices—that’s the magic of chickpea fajitas. This dish is a celebration of bold flavors and simple ingredients coming together in a colorful, satisfying wrap. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a lively dish to share with friends, chickpea fajitas offer a wholesome and flavorful journey in every bite.

I first discovered this recipe during a cozy weekend in a bustling city, where the aromas of street food inspired me to create a plant-based version that’s just as delicious. With crispy roasted chickpeas, zesty guacamole, and a touch of harissa cream, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug from the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 14 oz (400 g) chickpeas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Pinch of paprika
• 2 small tomatoes, chopped into chunks
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
• 1 ripe avocado
• Juice of 1 lime
• Chopped lime (for garnish)
• 1/2 cup (4 oz) sour cream
• 2 teaspoons harissa spice
• 4 corn tortillas
• Fresh coriander, for serving

Step-by-step

1. Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) (180°C fan/gas 6). Line a baking tray with foil. Drain the chickpeas, pat dry, then spread them onto the tray. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of paprika. Toss to coat evenly, then roast for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy, shaking once halfway through.
2. While the chickpeas roast, combine the chopped tomatoes and sliced red onion in a small bowl. Add the red wine vinegar, toss everything together, and set aside to pickle slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, mash the avocado with a fork, leaving some larger chunks for texture. Stir in the lime juice and season with a pinch of salt.
4. Mix the sour cream with the harissa spice until well combined. Set aside until ready to serve.
5. Heat a griddle pan over high heat until nearly smoking. Place each tortilla on the pan one at a time, charring each side until grill lines appear and they’re heated through.
6. To assemble, spread a spoonful of harissa cream over each tortilla. Layer on roasted chickpeas, guacamole, pickled salsa, and a few sprigs of coriander. Finish with a squeeze of lime from your wedges.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted seeds or finely chopped nuts over your fajitas before serving.
• These fajitas are perfect wrapped up with some shredded lettuce or a sprinkle of cheese if you’re not vegan.

Closing thoughts

Creating these chickpea fajitas is like turning a simple bunch of ingredients into a celebration of vibrant flavors and textures. The roasted chickpeas bring a perfect crunch, while the tangy guacamole and spicy harissa cream add layers of richness. It’s a wholesome, healthful meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious—perfect for a lively dinner or a casual gathering. Enjoy building your own flavorful wraps and sharing food that truly warms the heart.