Spiced Chickpea and Sweet Potato Salad: Your Go-To Fall Workday Lunch for Under $8 | Budget-Friendly Recipes

As the fall season settles in, it's time to revamp your workday lunch routine with flavors that celebrate this cozy time of year.

Our Budget-Friendly Recipes series is back with a dish that's not only perfect for autumn but also easy to pack and take to work: Spiced Chickpea and Sweet Potato Salad. Let's dive into how you can prepare this nutritious and satisfying meal for under $8!

Why Chickpeas and Sweet Potatoes?

Chickpeas and sweet potatoes are both nutrient-dense and budget-friendly ingredients, making them ideal for a balanced workday lunch.

Chickpeas offer a good amount of protein and fiber, which help keep you full and focused throughout the day. They're also rich in essential nutrients like folate and iron.

On the other hand, sweet potatoes are a fantastic source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium. Their natural sweetness pairs well with a variety of spices, and their complex carbohydrates provide a sustained energy release.

Together, these two ingredients create a balanced meal that satisfies your taste buds and supports your overall well-being.

Budget-Friendly Spiced Chickpea and Sweet Potato Salad

This hearty salad combines the earthy flavors of sweet potatoes with the protein-packed goodness of chickpeas; all spiced to perfection.

It's a vibrant medley of textures and flavors that captures the essence of fall in every bite. This dish is ideal for meal prep and is as convenient as it is delicious, making it a go-to choice for workday lunches.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp. paprika
• 1 tsp. cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Total cost: Around $8. Serves 4.

Cooking Directions:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F.
• In a large bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes, drained chickpeas, and diced red bell pepper.
• Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and add paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
• Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Once cooked, allow to cool slightly and transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

Pack this salad in an airtight container and enjoy a fulfilling workday lunch!

Additional Savings & Hot Tips

• Buy in Bulk: Chickpeas are often cheaper when purchased in bulk. Consider cooking and freezing them in portions.
• Seasonal Savings: Sweet potatoes are often on sale in the fall, making them an even more budget-friendly choice.
• Versatility: This salad can be served warm or cold, making it a flexible option for your workday lunch.

Want to Add More Protein? Try This Out:

If you're looking to boost the protein content of this already nutritious salad, consider adding grilled chicken or sausage.

• Chicken offers lean protein and can be seasoned with the same spices used in the salad for a cohesive flavor profile.
• Sausage, particularly a spiced variety like chorizo, can add a rich, smoky element to the dish.

Simply cook your protein of choice separately and then mix it into the salad before serving or packing for lunch. This addition not only elevates the dish but also provides an extra layer of satiety to keep you fueled throughout your workday.

Looking to Make It Even More Filling? Serve It Over a Salad:

If you're aiming for an even heartier meal, consider serving this Spiced Chickpea and Sweet Potato mixture over a bed of leafy greens like spinach, kale, or arugula.

The greens add extra fiber and nutrients, while the warm chickpea and sweet potato mixture slightly wilts the leaves, creating a delightful contrast of textures.

You can also add a light vinaigrette or a squeeze of lemon to bring all the flavors together. This combination transforms the dish into a robust salad bowl that's perfect for a satisfying and nutritious workday lunch.

Final Thoughts 

This Spiced Chickpea and Sweet Potato Salad is a nutritious and budget-friendly option for your fall workday lunches. It's easy to prepare ahead of time and pack for the office. Stay tuned for more budget-friendly recipes, and until next time, happy cooking and happy saving!