Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are part of the legume family. Chickpeas are high in protein and make an excellent replacement for meat in vegetarian and vegan diets. As a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, chickpeas offer a variety of health benefits. The magic combination of protein and fiber will help keep your appetite under control, a great aid in weight management. The fiber in chickpeas will also support digestion by increasing the healthy bacteria in your gut and assisting waste to flow through your digestive tract. Chickpeas are inexpensive and easy to add to your diet.
Here are a few ways to incorporate this legume:
- Use in salads in place of croutons
- Blend with olive oil and herbs for a quick dip
- Season with Mexican spices and eat in a taco
- Smash with avocado for a sandwich filling
I like to snack on crispy roasted chickpeas. The only limit to seasoning is your imagination. Here’s a recipe to get you started.
Crispy Ranch Chickpeas
- 1 can chickpeas
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp dry thyme
- 1 tsp dry dill
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp pepper
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
- Rinse and drain chickpeas and spread on a baking sheet
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Toss the chickpeas with the olive oil and salt
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Bake in the oven until brown and crispy, 20-30 minutes
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Combine the remaining ingredients in a small bowl
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Remove the chickpeas from the oven and immediately toss them with the seasonings
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Serve warm or at room temperature