Roasted Cauliflower & Chickpea Sheet Pan Dinner

Cauliflower may be one of the most versatile vegetables around—and one of the most nutritious. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and antioxidants that support healthy aging. When roasted alongside protein-rich chickpeas and warming curry spices, it transforms into a deeply satisfying one-pan meal that feels hearty without being heavy.

Adapted from Christopher Kimball’sMilk Street Shorts, this dish combines caramelized vegetables, plant-based protein, and a creamy yogurt sauce for balance. It’s simple to prepare, easy to digest, and filling enough to stand on its own, though a side salad or warm flatbread pairs beautifully.

Serves 4

Ingredients

• ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 3 teaspoons curry powder, divided
• Salt and black pepper
• 1 medium head cauliflower, trimmed and cut into bite-size florets (or 16 ounces bagged florets)
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
• ½ medium red onion, cut into ½-inch wedges (optional)
• 1 (15½-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup plain whole-milk yogurt
• Grated zest and 2 tablespoons juice from 1 medium lemon
• 1 medium garlic clove, finely grated
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced mint or cilantro (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to425°Fwith a rack in the middle position. In a large bowl, stir together ¼ cup of the olive oil, 2 teaspoons curry powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.

2. Add the cauliflower, bell pepper (if using), red onion (if using), and chickpeas. Toss well to coat evenly with the seasoning.

3. Spread onto a large rimmed baking sheet in an even layer. Roast for15 minutes, stir, then roast another10–15 minutesuntil vegetables are tender and lightly charred.

4. Meanwhile, mix the yogurt, lemon juice and zest, garlic, remaining teaspoon curry powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and the remaining tablespoon olive oil.

5. Transfer roasted vegetables to a serving bowl or plates. Top with yogurt sauce and sprinkle with mint or cilantro if desired. Serve with lemon wedges and extra sauce.

Why This Recipe Supports Senior Fitness

• Plant-based protein and fiber:Chickpeas and cauliflower support muscle maintenance, digestion, and steady energy.

• Anti-inflammatory ingredients:Olive oil, curry spices, and colorful vegetables provide antioxidants that support joint and heart health.

• Easy, balanced meal:One-pan cooking keeps preparation simple while delivering protein, fiber, and healthy fats in one satisfying dish.