Name: Chili Lime Chickpea Cauliflower Wrap Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced; 1 clove garlic, grated; Zest and juice of 1/2 a lime; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp maple syrup (optional); 1/4 cup cilantro, minced; Kosher salt, pinch; 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; Avocado oil, 1 tbsp plus 1-2 tbsp for roasting; Kosher salt, pinch; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1 small head cauliflower, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dry thyme; Kosher salt, generous pinch; Avocado oil, 1-2 tbsp; 1-2 chipotle peppers from a can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce; 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based yogurt; 2 tbsp vegan mayo (or more plant-based yogurt); Juice and zest of 1/2 a lime; 2 tsp maple syrup (or any sweetener); 1 clove garlic, grated; 1/4 cup cilantro, minced; Kosher salt, generous pinch; Water, 1-2 tbsp if needed to adjust consistency; Warm pita breads; Fresh lettuce leaves

Jump to Recipe

There is something irresistibly fresh and vibrant about a good wrap, and this Chili Lime Chickpea Cauliflower Wrap takes it to a whole new level. Combining zesty lime, smoky chipotle, tender roasted cauliflower, and crispy chickpeas wrapped in soft pita bread, it’s the perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and comforting all in one bite. Whether you’re craving a healthy lunch or a quick weeknight dinner, this Chili Lime Chickpea Cauliflower Wrap offers a flavorful, plant-powered meal that’s sure to brighten your day and satisfy your taste buds with every mouthful.

Chili Lime Chickpea Cauliflower Wrap Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Chili Lime Chickpea Cauliflower Wrap serves a delicious purpose, creating a harmony of fresh, smoky, and tangy flavors while adding texture and color that make the dish as beautiful as it is tasty.

Red onion: Thinly sliced for a touch of sharpness and crunch.
Garlic: Grated to infuse deep, savory notes throughout.
Lime zest and juice: The bright star that lifts and balances every element.
Red wine vinegar: Adds a subtle tangy bite for complexity.
Maple syrup: A hint of natural sweetness to mellow out the spice (optional but recommended).
Cilantro: Fresh and fragrant, giving an herbaceous freshness.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
Cauliflower: Roasted until golden, it adds a lovely nutty taste and satisfying texture.
Chickpeas: Crispy roasted chickpeas provide protein and crunch.
Garlic, coriander, onion powder, and thyme: A blend of spices that infuse warmth and depth.
Avocado oil: Ideal for roasting with a neutral but rich flavor.
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: The smoky heat that makes the sauce unforgettable.
Unsweetened plant-based yogurt and vegan mayo: Combine to create a creamy, tangy base for the sauce.
Lettuce and pita wraps: To hold all the goodness together in every delicious bite.

How to Make Chili Lime Chickpea Cauliflower Wrap

Step 1: Prepare the Pickled Onions

Start by thinly slicing the red onion and tossing it with grated garlic, lime zest and juice, red wine vinegar, maple syrup, minced cilantro, and a pinch of kosher salt. This quick marinade will mellow the onion’s sharpness and add bright and tangy flavors, setting the stage for layers of delicious contrast in your wrap. Pop this mixture into the fridge while you move on to the other components.

Step 2: Roast the Chickpeas

Pat the drained chickpeas dry with a kitchen towel to ensure they get nice and crispy. Toss them in avocado oil and salt, then bake on the top rack of your oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes. After they’ve cooled slightly, coat them in garlic powder and ground coriander and return to the oven for another 10 minutes. The result is crispy, savory chickpeas that bring both crunch and protein to your wrap.

Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower

On a separate baking tray, toss cauliflower florets with the remaining spices—garlic powder, onion powder, dry thyme—plus salt and 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil. Align the florets cut side down so they caramelize beautifully as they roast for 30-35 minutes in total. The cauliflower will become tender with golden, flavorful edges that form the hearty vegetable star of the wrap.

Step 4: Make the Chipotle Lime Sauce

For the sauce, blend chipotle peppers with unsweetened plant-based yogurt, vegan mayo, lime juice and zest, grated garlic, minced cilantro, maple syrup, and salt until smooth and creamy. If it feels too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to reach your desired consistency. This smoky, tangy sauce ties all the flavors of the wrap together with a luscious kick.

Step 5: Combine Roasted Chickpeas and Cauliflower

When both chickpeas and cauliflower have finished roasting, toss them together on one tray with several spoonfuls of the chipotle lime sauce. Use tongs to coat everything evenly, ensuring the smoky, creamy sauce clings to both the crispy and tender components, preparing the filling for your wrap.

Step 6: Assemble the Wrap

Warm your pita according to package instructions to make it soft and pliable. Spread a generous layer of the chipotle lime sauce inside the pita, then layer some fresh lettuce, the chipotle-coated chickpea and cauliflower mixture, and top with the pickled onions. Wrap it up tightly, and it’s ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Chili Lime Chickpea Cauliflower Wrap

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like additional cilantro sprigs, a squeeze of lime over the top, or sliced avocado add vibrant color and a burst of freshness that complements the smoky and tangy flavors inside your wrap perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair the wrap with simple sides like a crisp green salad, crunchy tortilla chips, or a cup of homemade salsa to round out your meal with refreshing textures and flavors that contrast beautifully with the hearty wrap.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Chili Lime Chickpea Cauliflower Wrap as an open-faced pita platter or roll the filling into collard green leaves instead of pita for a gluten-free option. You can even chop the filling and serve it as a vibrant bowl alongside grain or salad greens for a deconstructed feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep your sauce separate to maintain creaminess and freshness when serving again. Warm the filling gently before assembling your wrap.

Freezing

The roasted chickpea and cauliflower mixture freezes well for up to 1 month. To freeze, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The sauce and pickled onions are best made fresh, but the filling is very freezer-friendly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10–15 minutes to restore the roasted crispness and warmth. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain texture. Add fresh sauce and pickled onions after reheating for the best flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I make this wrap gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the pita for gluten-free wraps or use large collard green leaves as a sturdy, nutritious alternative that complements the flavors wonderfully.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this Chili Lime Chickpea Cauliflower Wrap is entirely plant-based, using vegan mayo and plant-based yogurt, making it perfect for vegan diets and anyone looking for a wholesome, delicious vegan meal.

How spicy is the chipotle sauce?

The chipotle peppers add a smoky moderate heat that can be adjusted by using fewer peppers or removing the seeds. If you prefer a milder taste, cut back on the chipotle or add extra yogurt and mayo to tone down the heat.

Can I prepare components ahead for a quicker assembly?

Definitely! You can roast chickpeas and cauliflower ahead of time, pickle the onions the day before, and make the chipotle sauce in advance. This makes assembling the wrap quick and easy whenever you’re ready to eat.

What other vegetables could I add?

Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even roasted sweet potatoes for extra color, texture, and nutrition. These veggies will blend nicely with the smoky, tangy flavors of the wrap.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a bright, flavorful, and satisfying meal, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try the Chili Lime Chickpea Cauliflower Wrap. It’s one of those dishes that feels like comfort food while packing a punch of fresh, zesty personality. Once you taste that smoky chipotle sauce paired with roasted veggies and crispy chickpeas, this wrap will quickly become one of your go-to favorites. Happy cooking and even happier eating!