CHICKPEA and VEGETABLE CASSEROLE Recipe Healthy Vegan and Vegetarian Meal Ideas Chickpea Recipes

Here's a delicious and healthy **Chickpea and Vegetable Casserole** recipe that’s perfect for both vegans and vegetarians! It's packed with protein, fiber, and rich flavors.

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### **Chickpea and Vegetable Casserole**
**Servings:** 4-6 | **Prep Time:** 15 min | **Cook Time:** 40 min

#### **Ingredients**
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked chickpeas)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

#### **Optional Additions**
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice (for extra heartiness)
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (for a creamy texture)
- 1/2 cup shredded vegan cheese (for a cheesy touch)

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### **Instructions**

1. **Preheat Oven:** Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Sauté Vegetables:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini, and sauté for another 5 minutes.
3. **Add Spices & Liquids:** Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes (with juice), cherry tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
5. **Bake the Casserole:** Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. **Final Touches:** Remove the foil, stir in the frozen peas, and bake for another 10 minutes uncovered. If using vegan cheese, sprinkle it on top before the final 10 minutes.
7. **Garnish & Serve:** Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

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### **Serving Ideas**
- Serve with crusty whole-grain bread or pita.
- Enjoy over quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced plate.