Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the optimal temperature for roasting the chickpeas and vegetables while ensuring they become crispy and perfectly caramelized.

2. Prepare the Chickpeas:

If you’re using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Place them on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and pat them dry as much as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy chickpeas. You can also use cooked chickpeas from scratch if preferred.

3. Prepare the Vegetables:

Slice the red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini into thin strips or half moons. Keep the slices uniform in size to ensure even cooking.

4. Season the Chickpeas and Vegetables:

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas and sliced vegetables. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Then, sprinkle the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, coriander, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables and chickpeas. Toss everything together until the chickpeas and veggies are well coated with the spices.

5. Spread on a Baking Sheet:

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Spread the chickpeas and vegetables out evenly on the baking sheet, making sure they’re in a single layer. This allows for proper roasting and ensures that everything cooks evenly.

6. Roast in the Oven:

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chickpeas are crispy and the vegetables are tender and lightly browned. Halfway through, give the mixture a stir to ensure even cooking.

7. Finish with Lime and Cilantro:

Once the fajita mixture is done roasting, remove the pan from the oven. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chickpeas and vegetables, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.

8. Assemble the Fajitas:

Warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. To assemble, place a generous portion of the roasted chickpea and vegetable mixture on each tortilla. Add your favorite toppings, such as avocado slices, guacamole, salsa, vegan sour cream, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the fajitas immediately while the vegetables and chickpeas are still warm. Pair with a side of rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Customization:

One of the best things about fajitas is how easily customizable they are. Here are some ways you can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences:

1. Add More Protein:

If you want to increase the protein content, you can add other plant-based proteins to the fajitas. Some options include:

• Tofu: Marinate and roast tofu cubes along with the chickpeas.
• Tempeh: Slice tempeh into strips and add it to the fajita mixture for an extra nutty flavor.
• Black Beans: For a heartier option, toss in some black beans along with the chickpeas.

2. Use Different Vegetables:

Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your preferences. Some great options include:

• Mushrooms: Add sliced cremini or portobello mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Sweet Potato: Dice sweet potato into small cubes and roast it along with the other ingredients.
• Corn: Toss in some corn kernels for a pop of sweetness.

3. Spice It Up:

If you love spicy food, increase the heat by adding:

• Jalapeños: Slice fresh jalapeños and add them to the mix before roasting.
• Cayenne Pepper: Add a pinch of cayenne to the spice mix for extra kick.
• Hot Sauce: Serve with your favorite hot sauce on the side.

4. Gluten-Free Option:

To make the recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free tortillas or serve the fajita filling over rice or quinoa.

Serving Ideas:

These vegan sheet pan chickpea fajitas are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for sides and additions that will elevate your meal:

1. Side Dishes:

• Cilantro-Lime Rice: A fragrant side of rice with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime pairs beautifully with these fajitas.
• Guacamole and Chips: You can’t go wrong with fresh guacamole and tortilla chips as a side.
• Mexican Street Corn: Charred corn on the cob slathered in vegan mayo, chili powder, and lime is a tasty accompaniment.
• Simple Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado is a great way to balance out the richness of the fajitas.

2. Toppings:

• Cashew Cream or Vegan Sour Cream: For a creamy element, top your fajitas with homemade cashew cream or store-bought vegan sour cream.
• Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime will add a burst of freshness to your meal.
• Shredded Lettuce or Cabbage: A crisp layer of lettuce or cabbage adds crunch and freshness.

Why This Recipe Works:

• Easy and Quick: Sheet pan meals are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. This recipe takes minimal prep time and requires just one pan for easy cleanup.
• Nutritious: Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, while the colorful vegetables provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals.
• Customizable: Whether you’re looking for more protein, spice, or different veggies, this recipe is highly adaptable to your tastes and dietary preferences.
• Flavorful: The fajita seasoning is packed with bold, smoky flavors that complement the roasted chickpeas and veggies, creating a satisfying dish that everyone will love.