Sheet Pan Tempeh and Vegetables with Cinnamon Tahini Sauce

Sheet Pan Tempeh and Vegetables with Cinnamon Tahini Sauce is a simple, wholesome, and flavor-packed meal that brings roasted goodness and cozy spice to your dinner table. With a medley of colorful veggies and hearty tempeh, all topped with a creamy cinnamon-scented tahini sauce, this one-pan dish is as nourishing as it is satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe makes weeknight dinners easy and exciting. It’s a complete plant-based meal with protein, fiber, and healthy fats all in one pan. The cinnamon tahini sauce adds a unique, slightly sweet and spiced twist that ties everything together beautifully. Plus, cleanup is minimal, and it’s endlessly customizable with your favorite seasonal vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Tempeh
• Sweet potatoes
• Broccoli florets
• Red onion
• Carrots
• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika (optional)

For the Cinnamon Tahini Sauce:

• Tahini
• Lemon juice
• Maple syrup
• Ground cinnamon
• Warm water (to thin)
• Salt

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare tempeh: Slice tempeh into cubes or strips. Optional: steam for 10 minutes to reduce bitterness.
3. Chop vegetables: Cut sweet potatoes, carrots, and onion into similar-sized pieces.
4. Toss and season: In a bowl, combine tempeh and veggies with oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Roast: Spread everything in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until veggies are tender and golden.
6. Make the sauce: Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Add warm water slowly until desired consistency is reached.
7. Serve: Drizzle the cinnamon tahini sauce over the roasted tempeh and vegetables. Garnish with herbs or seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Switch up veggies: Use cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, or zucchini based on what’s in season.
• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the seasoning mix or sauce.
• Nutty twist: Stir almond or cashew butter into the tahini sauce for extra richness.
• Add grains: Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a more filling meal.
• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free—just double-check your tempeh label.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or warm in a skillet.
The sauce can be stored separately in a sealed jar for 4–5 days. Stir well before using.
Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes in the vegetables and sauce.

FAQs

Do I need to steam tempeh before roasting?

It’s optional, but steaming helps remove its natural bitterness and improves texture.

Can I make this oil-free?

Yes, toss the vegetables and tempeh in a bit of vegetable broth or lemon juice instead of oil.

Is the cinnamon flavor strong?

It’s subtle and warming—balanced by lemon and maple syrup in the sauce.

Can I use tofu instead of tempeh?

Absolutely. Press and cube tofu, then season and roast just like tempeh.

What’s a good tahini substitute?

You can use sunflower seed butter or another nut butter for a different but tasty result.

Can I prep this in advance?

Yes. Chop vegetables and tempeh ahead of time and store separately. Mix sauce just before serving.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Fresh is best for texture, but frozen vegetables can work—just increase baking time slightly and don’t overcrowd the pan.

How do I keep everything from getting soggy?

Spread everything in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the sheet pan.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The sweet potatoes and cinnamon sauce tend to be a hit with kids. You can omit spices if needed.

What herbs pair well with this dish?

Fresh parsley, cilantro, or thyme make great garnishes to brighten the dish.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Tempeh and Vegetables with Cinnamon Tahini Sauce is a simple, nourishing dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. With warm spices, hearty plant-based protein, and vibrant roasted vegetables, it’s a balanced, feel-good meal you’ll want to keep in rotation. Whether for meal prep or a cozy dinner, it’s a delicious way to eat more plants—one pan at a time.

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