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This Roasted Butternut & Sage Pita Pocket is a hearty and satisfying vegan meal, featuring sweet roasted butternut squash, crispy chickpeas, fresh sage, and creamy vegan aioli tucked into warm pita bread. It's the perfect balance of comforting, fresh, and plant-based goodness—ideal for cozy lunches or light dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 2
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Filling:

  • 1 small butternut squash peeled and cubed (about 2 cups)
  • 1 can chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 8 –10 fresh sage leaves

For Assembly:

  • 2 pita breads
  • 2 –4 tablespoons vegan aioli or vegan mayo with a squeeze of lemon
  • A handful of baby spinach or arugula
  • Extra fresh sage leaves for garnish optional

Instructions
 

  • Roast the Butternut Squash and Chickpeas: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Toss butternut cubes and chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, and salt.
  • Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until the squash is tender and chickpeas are crispy.
  • Crisp the Sage Leaves: In the last 5 minutes of roasting, scatter fresh sage leaves on the baking sheet and let them crisp up lightly.
  • Assemble the Pita Pockets: Warm the pita breads slightly, then cut open to form pockets.
  • Spread a layer of vegan aioli inside each pita.
  • Fill with roasted squash, crispy chickpeas, and a handful of spinach or arugula.
  • Tuck in a few extra crispy sage leaves for added texture and flavor.
  • Serve: Serve immediately while warm, optionally with extra aioli or a squeeze of lemon.

Notes

  • Substitute sweet potato for butternut squash if preferred.
  • You can also mash the roasted butternut slightly for a creamier, "squash spread" effect inside the pita.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pita or serve over a salad instead.
🌿 Tip: Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a little extra depth and sweetness!
Keyword butternut squash pita, chickpea pita, cozy vegan food, fall vegan recipes, hearty vegan sandwich, plant-based comfort food, roasted squash sandwich, sage and butternut recipe, vegan lunch ideas, vegan pita pocket