The Best Recipe for Roasted Chickpeas: A Healthy Snack | Foodal.com (2024)

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Are you looking for a tasty, satisfying snack that will actually contribute to better health, instead of destroying your waistline?

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Sure, you have carrots and celery sticks. And there’s always the option of six raw, unsalted almonds… which work most of the time.

But in those moments of obsession when you really need something with big taste and a devilish crunch – like an entire bag of potato chips, or two big handfuls of salty nuts – bland snacks are sadly inadequate.

Know what I’m talking about? Then let me introduce the unassuming chickpea.

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A guilt-free alternative to junk food or pigging out on nuts covered in salt, these petite pulses can be seasoned and roasted to a sublime, crisp texture with outstanding flavor. They’re perfect enjoyed in a big bowl, or saved for later in a homemade snack pack.

In fact, they’re so good, you’ll think you’re eating the finest processed, preservative-laden junk food – not a dietary giant!

Roasted and Seasoned To Perfection

Chickpea snacks can be made with dried garbanzos, provided you remember to soak them overnight.

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But I recommend keeping a can or two on hand for a quick alternative – they crisp up just as well, and you don’t have to plan ahead.

To ensure you get the goodness of dried beans, look for organic varieties in BPA-free cans, as well as low-salt or no-salt options.

Read more about the difference between dried and canned beans, and learn which one will be best for your own cooking needs!

With virtually unlimited flavor combinations and all those spices on your shelf to experiment with, a good rule of thumb is to use one dominant seasoning, along with one or two additional complimentary seasonings.

Add a teaspoon of olive oil and a pinch of sea salt to round out the recipe.

Here are a few different flavor combos:

  • For candied garbanzos, combine cinnamon and a pinch of cloves with some brown sugar.
  • For savory fare with a bit of Italian flair, try mixing garlic salt, dried oregano flakes or dried basil (or both!), and finely grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Try a combination of curry powder, smoked paprika, and cumin.
  • For heat lovers, spice them up with wasabi, nori flakes, and black pepper.

The Best Recipe for Roasted Chickpeas: A Healthy Snack | Foodal.com (4)

Read my recipe below to learn what I use to make my personal favorite flavor combo: smoky and spicy garbanzos!

The Recipe

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The Best Smoky and Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

Votes: 4
Rating: 4.5
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Print Recipe

Would you like a snack that’s crunchy, flavorful, and healthy? Smoky and spicy roasted chickpeas deliver guilt-free, tasty satisfaction. More on Foodal.

Servings Prep Time
2 servings 5 minutes
Cook Time Passive Time
30 minutes 20 minutes
Servings Prep Time
2 servings 5 minutes
Cook Time Passive Time
30 minutes 20 minutes

The Best Recipe for Roasted Chickpeas: A Healthy Snack | Foodal.com (6)

The Best Smoky and Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

Votes: 4
Rating: 4.5
You:

Rate this recipe!

Print Recipe

Would you like a snack that’s crunchy, flavorful, and healthy? Smoky and spicy roasted chickpeas deliver guilt-free, tasty satisfaction. More on Foodal.

Servings Prep Time
2 servings 5 minutes
Cook Time Passive Time
30 minutes 20 minutes
Servings Prep Time
2 servings 5 minutes
Cook Time Passive Time
30 minutes 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 can chickpeas*
  • 1 canned chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (1 pepper, NOT 1 can!)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
  • 1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon sea salt

Servings: servings

Units:

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.

  2. Drain and rinse garbanzos in cold water until the water runs clear. Shake off any excess water, or use a salad spinner.

  3. Spread beans on a clean dishtowel or paper towel and pat dry, rolling the beans gently to absorb as much water as possible. Some of the outer skins will come off.

  4. Allow the beans to air dry for another 10-30 minutes.

  5. Finely mince the chipotle pepper, or mash with a mortar and pestle. Mix in the olive oil and seasonings.

  6. In a medium bowl, add the beans and seasoning mix. Toss lightly to coat.

  7. Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, providing plenty of space for the beans to roast.

  8. Bake for 30-40 minutes. Every 10 minutes, shake the pan, and re-spread the beans. Watch the last 10 minutes of baking carefully, as they can quickly burn. At this time, they will be thoroughly browned, but still soft in the center when you break open one of the beans.

  9. Turn off the oven, open the door slightly, and leave the pan inside as the oven cools for an additional 10-20 minutes to finish drying and creating a crispy outer surface.

  10. Serve warm or cool. Store any leftovers in a paper bag.

Nutritional Information*

Nutrition Facts

The Best Smoky and Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

Amount Per Serving

Calories 289 Calories from Fat 54

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 6g 9%

Saturated Fat 1g 5%

Polyunsaturated Fat 2g

Monounsaturated Fat 2g

Sodium 886mg 37%

Potassium 355mg 10%

Total Carbohydrates 50g 17%

Dietary Fiber 9g 36%

Sugars 4g

Protein 10g 20%

Vitamin A 11%

Vitamin C 19%

Calcium 7%

Iron 18%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Cooking by the Numbers…

Step 1 – Rinse and Dry Garbanzos

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Drain and rinse the beans well in a colander under cold water. Lay them out on a clean, dry dishtowel or paper towel and pat dry.

You can also use a salad spinner to quickly spin away extra water!

Allow them to air dry for up to 30 minutes while the oven preheats to 425°F, and while you combine the seasonings (I’ll explain how in the next step).

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And for those looking for a vegan egg white alternative, save the juice from the canned beans for amazing aquafaba!

Step 2 – Mash and Mix

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I like to use a mortar and pestle rather than a food processor for mixing the seasonings. No need to dirty a large appliance!

Even with a double recipe, the quantities are still small enough to fit in a mortar.

Mash the chipotle pepper. Mix in the olive oil, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and sea salt.

Step 3 – Coat the Chickpeas

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In a medium bowl, combine the beans and seasoning mix. Toss lightly together until well coated.

Step 4 – Spread Evenly

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Spread the garbanzos evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they have enough room to roast.

If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam in their own juices and never crisp.

Step 5 – Bake and Shake

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Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, shaking the pan to stir the beans every 10 minutes. Re-spread every time you shake for even roasting.

Watch the last 10 minutes of baking carefully, as they can quickly burn! The chickpeas should be thoroughly browned, not black and burnt.

At this time, remove one of the darker beans, and cut it open. The center willstill look and feel a little soft.

Immediately turn off the oven, open the door slightly, and leave the pan inside as the oven cools for an additional 10 to 20 minutes – this creates a wonderful crispy crust and finishes drying the center, without the risk of charring.

After the first 10 minutes, remove one of the beans, and cut it open, just like before. The center should now be dry, and ready to eat! If it is still soft, leave the pan in the oven for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 6 – Enjoy!

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Roasted chickpea snacks can be served warm or cool.

If you have any leftovers (which is doubtful!), store them in a paper bag to retain their crunch – airtight containers will make them soggy.

The Last Bite

Sweet, savory, or blazing-hot spicy, these little nuggets taste so good you’ll be amazed that they’re actually good for you.

Even the kids will love them, especially if you serve them for your next movie night instead of popcorn!

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For the best crunch, remember make sure your rinsed legumes are as dry as possible before mixing with the oil and seasonings, and give them plenty of room to roast. And if you double up a batch, use two baking sheets.

Satisfying and flavorful, you’ll love what the humble chickpea brings to the table!

Do you readers have any favorite flavor combos you’d like to share? Drop us a note in the comments below.

Don’t forget to Pin It!

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Photos by Lorna Kring, © Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details.

*Nutritional information derived from a database of known generic and branded foods and ingredients and was not compiled by a registered dietitian or submitted for lab testing. It should be viewed as an approximation.

The Best Recipe for Roasted Chickpeas: A Healthy Snack | Foodal.com (16)

About Lorna Kring

Recently retired as a costume specialist in the TV and film industry, Lorna now enjoys blogging on contemporary lifestyle themes. A bit daft about the garden, she’s particularly obsessed with organic tomatoes and herbs, and delights in breaking bread with family and friends.

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The Best Recipe for Roasted Chickpeas: A Healthy Snack | Foodal.com (2024)

FAQs

What is the healthiest way to eat chickpeas? ›

"Chickpeas are wonderful to add directly to your dish—like salad, pasta, or soup—for extra protein and fiber," Cannon told us.

Is it healthy to eat roasted chickpeas? ›

Roasted chickpeas are a cheap, easy snack you can make at home. They are packed with protein and fiber, and can be made to satisfy sweet or savory cravings. I was blown away by how good they turned out, and roasted chickpeas are now a staple in my healthy snack roster.

How many cups of chickpeas should I eat a day? ›

You can eat at least one serving (28 grams) of chickpeas per day. However, don't eat more than 70 grams a day since that can cause adverse side effects. If you consume too many chickpeas, some side effects you may get include bloating, nausea, and gas.

Why are my roasted chickpeas not crunchy? ›

Spread the chickpeas on a kitchen towel and gently pat them dry. It's essential to make sure they're totally dry before you toss them with the olive oil – damp chickpeas won't crisp up in the oven. Discard any loose skins from the outside of the chickpeas.

Is there anything unhealthy about chickpeas? ›

Risks. People should not eat raw chickpeas or other raw pulses, as they can contain toxins and substances that are difficult to digest. Even cooked chickpeas have complex sugars that can be difficult to digest and lead to intestinal gas and discomfort.

How many times a week should you eat chickpeas? ›

The recommended daily intake of boiled chickpeas, like other foods, depends on various factors such as age, sex, activity level, and overall dietary patterns. However, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend consuming 1.5 to 2 cups of legumes per week as part of a healthy eating pattern for adults.

Can I eat roasted chickpeas daily? ›

Yes, we can eat roasted chana daily in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Roasted chana (chickpeas) is a good protein, fibre, and essential nutrients source. However, like any food, it's important not to overconsume. Variety in your diet is key to getting a wide range of nutrients from different sources.

How many roasted chickpeas should I eat? ›

Up to 1/4 cup of chickpeas daily is allowed on a low FODMAP diet for digestive issues. Gradually add chickpeas and other legumes to your diet to allow your body to adjust. Over time, you will better tolerate them. Products such as BeanoⓇ help digest the gas-forming carbohydrate in beans.

Is snacking on chickpeas healthy? ›

They're also very healthy, boasting vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein. These characteristics may support weight management, blood sugar regulation, and brain health while reducing your risk of chronic ailments like heart disease and cancer.

What to eat with chickpeas to make a complete protein? ›

Originally Answered: How do I make chickpeas a complete protein source? Mix them with either a whole grain or a nut/seed of some sort. Any combination of legumes and whole grains, or legumes and nuts or seeds, will make a “complete” protein that contains all the essential amino acids found in meat or dairy.

Which is healthier chickpeas or garbanzo beans? ›

So really, there is no wrong answer. Both are correct! This unique, nutrient-packed bean has been popular in the Middle East for many years, as chickpeas are a staple ingredient in many of the region's most well-known dishes like hummus and falafel.

Are chickpeas healthier than rice? ›

Legumes have superior nutrient profiles in comparison to other common dietary staples, such as rice and corn [21]. For example, black beans and chickpeas contain more than 7 g of protein, while long-grain white rice and kernel corn contain only 2 g per 1/2 cup serving of cooked food.

What happens if you eat too much roasted chickpeas? ›

Chickpeas can often cause bloating and gas, which is why it's key to know your limit. Here's what you need to know about this side effect of eating chickpeas—including how much you should eat—and for even more healthy tips, be sure to check out our list of The 7 Healthiest Foods to Eat Right Now.

Do you keep roasted chickpeas in the fridge? ›

Do roasted chickpeas need to be refrigerated? No, and in fact, they shouldn't be. Think of roasted chickpeas as a crunchy snack, similar to potato chips. They need to stay at room temperature in order to maintain the proper texture.

Why can't my stomach handle chickpeas? ›

Chickpeas are made up of oligosaccharides, sugars that are also found in other foods like rye, onions, and garlic. Since they are highly concentrated in chickpeas, a lot of it has to pass through our system, causing longer and more severe bouts of bloating or uneasiness.

Are chickpeas healthier raw or cooked? ›

Aside from being too hard to eat when they're dry, uncooked chickpeas contain toxins like lectins which can cause food poisoning. Plus, cooking cooked chickpeas again will only make them better. Cooking dried chickpeas may be a little challenging because of how long they take to prepare.

Are canned chickpeas as healthy? ›

Great news! Both canned and dried varieties of chickpeas are nutritious! When purchasing canned varieties, look for those labeled "no salt added" or "low in sodium." Overall, beans are budget-friendly, but dried can often be less expensive and also more flavorful than canned.

What is the best way to eat chickpeas? ›

How to Use Canned Chickpeas:
  1. Make a quick but better-than-store-bought hummus.
  2. Roast canned chickpeas.
  3. Pan fry chickpeas.
  4. Mash chickpeas for a sandwich.
  5. Mash 'em in a quesadilla.
  6. Make chana masala.
  7. Or another chickpea curry!
  8. Bulk up your soups or stews.
Feb 13, 2021

Is it OK to eat chickpeas everyday? ›

While including chickpeas in your diet may be beneficial for you, eating them daily may not be so healthy. Eating fibre and protein is good as far as your body is able to assimilate it. Excessive fibre or protein can lead to problems of indigestion like gas, bloating and acidity.

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