This hearty and warm salad is full of delightful and surprising flavor combinations greater than the sum of their parts. Zaatar-covered roasted chickpeas, roasted sweet potatoes, and topped with buffalo-style hot sauce and pesto vinaigrette- this hearty warm salad will keep you full and satisfied.

I know the combination of buffalo-style hot sauce and pesto seems odd- but something about it just works.

Salad Makings:

Za’tar- is a middle easter spice blend made of dried herbs and toasted spice, including oregano, marjoram, cumin, coriander, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. If you have not gotten to know this spicy blend- pick a jar up, and you will not regret it. Za’tar is great on hummus, fish, meat, pita bread, and all kinds of vegetables.
Sweet Potato- roasting sweet potatoes are my favorite way to cook this hearty and healthy vegetable. It’s packed with nutrients and has a rich, creamy flavor. When you roast them, they caramelize on the outside and add a delicious cozy flavor to the salad. If you don’t have sweet potatoes on hand, try using roasted carrots as a substitute. If you enjoy roasted sweet potatoes you will enjoy Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Yogurt Dipping Sauce and Winter Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Toasted Pepitas.
Chickpeas- a protein and fiber packed bean, roasted and covered in za’atar the chickpeas are crip and remind me of a healthy crouton.
Buffalo-style hot sauce and Pesto Vinaigrette- I know this sound weird- but trust me, this is an excellent combination! I am at lost in describing why and how this work, but it just does- especially with za’atar.
Fresh parmesan cheese (peeled)- adds a rich, salty punch that is great with the caramelized edges of the sweet potato.
Hearty Greens- you’ll want to use spinach or arugula for this winter salad. Both spinach and arugula are super hearty and hold their texture and flavor with the addition of warm ingredients.
Pesto vinaigrette dressing- pesto, olive oil, wine vinegar.

How to roast the sweet potatoes and Za’atar chickpeas:

Start by preheating the oven to 425. Cut the sweet potatoes into ½ inch cubes. Place the potatoes on a parchment line cookie sheet, drizzle with olive, and season with salt and pepper.

After opening a can of chickpeas, pour them into a colander to drain and rinse them with cold water. Place the chickpeas into the bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Season the chickpeas with two tablespoons of the Za’atar.

Roast the sweet potatoes and chickpeas for about 25 minutes, or until the the potatoes is tender and brown at the edges.

How to make the pesto vinaigrette dressing:

Whether you’re trying to figure out how to sneak more vegetables into your life or trying to come up with creative ways for an abundant basil harvest, this pesto vinaigrette recipe is super versatile.

I usually use my walnut basil pesto with the base of this vinaigrette, but don’t be afraid to use whatever kind of pesto you have. I am not a purist. If it’s easier and more convenient, by store-bought pesto, do it!

All you need for this recipe is half a cup of pesto, a quarter cup of olive oil, and a quarter cup of rice wine vinegar. Combine the ingredients thoroughly and store them in the refrigerator for 5 to 6 days.

More Warm Salad Recipe:

If you enjoy the flavors and textures of this Roasted Sweet Potato and Za'tar Chickpeas Warm Salad (with Pesto vinaigrette), there are many other warm salad recipes that you might enjoy. For example, try the Harissa Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpeas with Tahini Sauce, which incorporates spicy harissa paste for a little extra kick. For more favor-packed za'atar try Za’atar Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpeas Salad with Tahini Sauce.

Fried Feta and Rotisserie Chicken Salad for Dinner is a rich and creamy way to enjoy a warm salad. If you have leftover turkey from a holiday meal, try making a Warm Chopped Salad with leftover Turkey, Jalapeños, and Blistered Tomatoes. This salad is perfect for using up leftovers and is full of flavor and protein. For a winter-inspired salad, try the Winter Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Toasted Pepitas. This salad features roasted sweet potatoes, toasted pepitas, and a tangy citrus dressing.

Overall, there are many different ways to incorporate warm vegetables and hearty ingredients into your salads. Experiment with different flavors and textures to find a combination that you love. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or an impressive side dish for your next party, a warm salad is a great choice.

Recipe