Warm Chickpea and Leek Cakes with Silky Roasted Carrot Sauce and Cucumber, Apple, and Dill Salad

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 220 °C / 425 °F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly oil it.

2. 2

   On the tray, toss the carrots, onion, and 1 garlic clove with 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes at 220 °C / 425 °F, until the carrots are tender and lightly browned.

3. 3

   While the vegetables roast, heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the leek with a pinch of salt and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring, until soft. Let it cool slightly.

4. 4

   In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas, keeping some texture. Add the cooked leek, ground oats, sunflower seeds, parsley, 1 grated or very finely chopped garlic clove, zest of 1/2 lemon, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and mix well.

5. 5

   Shape the mixture into 8 compact cakes of equal size. If the mixture feels too wet, let it rest for 5 minutes so the oats can absorb some moisture.

6. 6

   Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Brown the cakes for 3 to 4 minutes per side until a firm golden crust forms. Transfer them to the oven tray and finish cooking for 8 minutes at 220 °C / 425 °F.

7. 7

   For the salad, combine the cucumber, green apple, and dill in a bowl. Dress with apple cider vinegar, 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Set aside.

8. 8

   Transfer the roasted carrots, onion, and roasted garlic to a blender. Add the tahini, 1/2 cup water, the remaining lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Blend until silky smooth. If needed, add a little more water for a soft, spreadable texture.

9. 9

   To serve, spread a layer of warm carrot sauce on each plate. Place 2 cakes per serving on top and finish with the cucumber, apple, and dill salad. Serve right away.