Tuesday, July 3, 2012

A Trio of Spiced Chickpeas

A Trio of Spiced Chickpeas

Can a healthy snack taste really, really good? Yup, and this one definitely does. If you're not already eating chickpeas than you're missing out on 6 grams of protein, 7 grams of fiber and heaps of deliciousness. The downside is that on their own, the little garbanzo beans are pretty mild tasting...and pretty boring. But the good news is that it's very easy to add a ton of flavor with very little work.

A Trio of Spiced Chickpeas
I like to roast them in the oven or even on the stove top in a cast iron skillet. A little olive oil, some salt and pepper and you soon have crispy little snacks. But I particularly love to add a variety of spices depending on my mood. I usually opt for cumin or smoked paprika or even a little curry powder but you can use your imagination and the inspiration of your spice cabinet. Whether you like them mild or spicy, don't leave out the bit of fresh herbs because it really brings out the flavor.

A Trio of Spiced Chickpeas
Chickpeas with cumin
And since chickpeas are so high in fiber, even a small amount keeps you full for a long time. I usually take a little container of them to work with me for an afternoon snack but I've learned I have to pack it fast. If I leave the chickpeas on the stove top to cool when Brian is around, I can count on finding an empty pan when I get back to the kitchen. Enjoy!

A Trio of Spiced Chickpeas
Chickpeas with smoked paprika
Ingredients
2 Cups (or one 15 oz. can) of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 Tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1/2 Teaspoon spice of choice
1/4 Teaspoon garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste



A Trio of Spiced Chickpeas
Chickpeas with curry powder
Coat the chickpeas with the olive oil, garlic powder and spice. Place on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper and roast in a 400 degree oven for approximately 20 minutes. Toss in the fresh chives, adjust the seasoning and serve. If you choose to saute them on the stove top, use a cast iron or aluminum pan on medium heat and stir frequently. Makes approximately 3 servings.

24 comments:

  1. Ooh! I love all three variations but my first pick would be one with cumin! :)

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  2. My first time I made them I forgot them in the oven, no one told me they would explode if you cooked them too long :0 I never put anything other than garlic, but really they are great plain too! I love them!

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  3. Very nice. I love chickpeas and these look like great ways to mix it up!

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  4. I love roasted chickpeas, and I usually use all these spices together. I love the idea of having three simpler flavors, though. Beautiful!

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  5. I've always wanted to make chickpeas this way, but haven't. Maybe this post will inspire me! Yours look absolutely delicious!!

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  6. I am so all over these it's not even funny. YUM!

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  7. Anita these are a favorite all time snack. I add them to salads too, but I like the idea of roasting them with some garlic and chives or all three. Tasty healthy little things these garbanzos.

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  8. What a cute presentation, these look delicious! I love snacking on chickpeas :)

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  9. Oh yum! This may be my favorite chickpea variation I've seen! I could eat this all up.

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  10. Those crunchy snacks are just the ticket. I am going to have to try them pronto.

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  11. These chickpeas look irresistible as a snack choice :D

    Cheers
    Choc Chip Uru

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  12. I have been meaning to make these puppies...and I love having different spice options. I eat hummus nearly every day, but I can certainly spare a can to try out this delicious snack!

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  13. I love chickpeas! Great recipe trio, bookmarked it! Thanks for sharing! =]

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  14. Love your choice of spices. Smoked paprika and cumin are two of my fav's!

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  15. who needs hummus when you can snack on just the chickpeas? This is a great, healthy idea!

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  16. Chickpeas have always been my favorites. And these have three flavors. what a cool snack.

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  17. This looks awesome, I love chickpeas!

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  18. I love chickpeas, and roasting them and adding spices sounds like a brilliant snack.

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  19. These look so healthy for a snack and always a great choice :-)

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  20. These definitely go fast! My favorite way is to have them with mixture of paprika-cumin or with rosemary.

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  21. What a marvelous tapas-style serving of chickpeas! Each one sounds so unique and interesting - I can envision some wonderful drink pairings!

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  22. Thanks for the post; it has blog to be exactly I needed. I appreciate the information, well thought for anybody. Thank you !

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  23. I find these little guys absolutely addicting!!!

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