Are you looking for a protein-packed ingredient that’s also versatile, nutritious, and delicious? Look no further than the humble chickpea! These little legumes are a staple in many cuisines around the world, from Mediterranean to Indian, Middle Eastern to Latin American. And with their mild flavor and versatility, they’re perfect for whipping up everything from hearty stews and curries to crunchy snacks and sweet treats.
Whether you’re a vegetarian or vegan, or just looking for ways to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, chickpeas are an excellent choice. Not only are they high in fiber and protein, but they’re also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help support overall health and well-being.
In this article, we’ll share 20 of our favorite flavorful chickpea recipes for every occasion – from quick and easy snacks to more elaborate meals perfect for special occasions. So get ready to flex your culinary muscles and discover the incredible versatility and deliciousness of the chickpea!
Spicy Roasted Chickpeas with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your snack game with this addictive recipe that combines the creamy richness of chickpeas with a bold kick from smoked paprika. These crispy, spicy treats are perfect for munching on while watching a movie or as a satisfying pick-me-up during the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chickpeas and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
4. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the spice mixture.
5. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until crispy and golden brown, shaking the pan halfway through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Chickpea and Coconut Curry
A rich and aromatic curry that combines the creaminess of coconut with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in the chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Feta and Olives
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the tangy flavors of feta cheese and Kalamata olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the top, and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is best served chilled.
Chickpea and Spinach Stew with Garlic and Lemon
This hearty stew is a flavorful blend of chickpeas, spinach, garlic, and lemon, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. With its rich aroma and tangy taste, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the chickpeas, lemon juice, and spinach leaves. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the spinach has wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Chickpea and Avocado Wrap
A satisfying and healthy wrap filled with crispy chickpeas, creamy avocado, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortilla wraps
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse chickpeas and toss with olive oil, lime juice, and cumin.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
4. Meanwhile, warm tortilla wraps by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble the wrap by spreading mashed avocado on each tortilla, followed by a spoonful of roasted chickpeas.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Tagine
Moroccan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Tagine Recipe
A flavorful and nutritious stew from Morocco, this tagine combines the warmth of spices with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the sweet potatoes and chickpeas. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chickpea Flour Pancakes with Herbs
These delicate pancakes are a great gluten-free alternative to traditional flapjacks, packed with fresh herbs and the nutty flavor of chickpea flour. Perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together chickpea flour and salt.
2. Add olive oil, warm water, apple cider vinegar, and egg. Whisk until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped herbs.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on batch size)
Hummus-Stuffed Roasted Chickpeas
Transform ordinary roasted chickpeas into a flavorful snack by filling them with creamy hummus. This unique twist on traditional roasted chickpeas adds a tangy and savory element that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup hummus
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chickpeas and remove any loose skins.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
5. Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Once the chickpeas are roasted, let them cool slightly before filling each one with about 1/4 teaspoon of hummus.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chickpea and Quinoa Buddha Bowl
A nutritious and filling bowl packed with protein-rich chickpeas, fiber-boosting quinoa, and a medley of colorful vegetables. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner that will keep you satisfied till the next meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed greens (kale, spinach, arugula)
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced scallions
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and scallions.
2. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and toss gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlicky Chickpea and Kale Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. This flavorful recipe is perfect for a chilly day or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add chickpeas and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add kale and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until kale is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and crusty bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea and Lentil Veggie Burgers
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian alternative to traditional burgers, these chickpea and lentil patties are packed with protein and fiber. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup cooked lentils
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional)
– Breadcrumbs or panko for coating (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or a potato masher.
2. Add the cooked lentils, oats, onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well until combined.
3. If desired, add the beaten egg and mix until the mixture is sticky.
4. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size.
5. Shape each portion into a patty.
6. Coat with breadcrumbs or panko if desired.
7. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon-Tahini Chickpea Pasta
Brighten up your pasta night with this zesty and creamy Lemon-Tahini Chickpea Pasta! This easy-to-make recipe combines the comforting warmth of chickpeas with the brightness of lemon zest and the richness of tahini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the chickpea mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea and Tomato Shakshuka
Shakshuka, a North African favorite, gets a delicious twist with the addition of chickpeas, creating a flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 eggs
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or omelette pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, chickpeas, tomatoes, bell pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Create 4 wells in the mixture and crack an egg into each well.
5. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are a surprising delight, packed with the nutty flavor of chickpeas and the richness of dark chocolate chips. Perfect for a sweet treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup mashed chickpeas
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter, sugar, honey, and mashed chickpeas until smooth.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chickpea and Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful dip, perfect for veggie sticks, pita chips, or crackers. This recipe combines the richness of chickpeas with the sweetness of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 roasted red peppers (see note), peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or cumin for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Combine chickpeas, roasted red peppers, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a blender.
3. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides of blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is ready to go straight from the blender.
Indian-Spiced Chickpea and Potato Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines the creamy richness of chickpeas with the comforting warmth of potatoes, all infused with aromatic Indian spices. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add potatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
4. Stir in cumin, coriander, and cinnamon; cook for an additional minute.
5. Add chickpeas; stir to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea and Cucumber Tzatziki Salad
This creamy salad combines the best of Mediterranean flavors with a twist of chickpeas, cucumbers, and tangy yogurt. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light lunch option.
Ingredients:
• 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 2 medium cucumbers (diced)
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumbers, and garlic.
2. In a separate bowl, mix yogurt, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add lemon juice to the yogurt mixture and stir well.
4. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chickpea-cucumber mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Chickpea and Mushroom Vegan Meatballs
Transform your dinner game with these savory chickpea and mushroom vegan meatballs, packed with protein and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinara sauce and pasta or sub rolls
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork until mostly smooth.
3. Add chopped mushrooms, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, olive oil, onion, garlic, and oregano. Mix well.
4. Use your hands or a spoon to shape into small meatballs (about 1-inch/2.5 cm).
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. Serve with marinara sauce and pasta or sub rolls, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea and Carrot Falafel Wraps
A flavorful and nutritious wrap filled with crispy falafel, crunchy carrots, and creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Pita bread
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chickpeas, grated carrot, parsley, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add flour and beaten egg to the bowl and stir until a dough forms.
4. Shape into small patties and fry in hot oil until golden brown.
5. Assemble wraps by spreading tzatziki sauce on pita bread, adding falafel patties, and topping with carrot sticks.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea and Turmeric Golden Milk Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the vibrant, anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a soothing pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chickpeas, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add turmeric and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with the versatility of chickpeas! This article features 20 delicious and flavorful recipes that showcase the humble legume’s culinary potential. From spicy roasted snacks to hearty stews, creamy curries to crispy wraps, these recipes cater to every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a satisfying meal, this collection has got you covered. So go ahead, get creative with chickpeas, and discover the endless possibilities in the world of culinary delights!
