When it comes to quick and easy meals, chickpeas are a pantry staple that can’t be beat. These versatile legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making them a perfect addition to a variety of dishes. From hearty stews and curries to salads and snacks, there’s no limit to the creative ways you can use chickpeas.
In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious and easy chickpea recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a plant-based alternative to meat or just want to mix things up in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So, let’s get started and explore the world of chickpeas!
Garlic Butter Chickpeas with Spinach
This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional roasted chickpeas, adding the richness of garlic butter and the nutrients of spinach. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads or wraps.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together chickpeas, garlic, and butter until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until chickpeas are crispy and golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped spinach over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Roasted Chickpeas with Smoked Paprika
Crispy Roasted Chickpeas with Smoked Paprika: A flavorful snack that’s perfect for munching on the go!
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chickpeas and remove any loose skins.
3. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, and salt.
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.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with garlic powder or other seasonings if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk
This creamy and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, chickpeas, and coconut milk. It’s a simple and quick recipe that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Chickpea Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing and flavorful salad featuring chickpeas, lemon juice, and a hint of herbs. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Drain the chickpeas and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chickpeas, parsley, and dill to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Spicy Chickpea and Tomato Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the warmth of cumin and coriander balanced by the tanginess of tomatoes. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s great for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the chickpeas and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea Avocado Mash Toast
A creamy and nutritious twist on traditional avocado toast, this recipe combines the velvety texture of mashed chickpeas with the richness of ripe avocados.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices whole grain bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
3. In a bowl, mix together the mashed avocado, chickpeas, lemon juice, and garlic.
4. Spread the mixture evenly onto the toasted bread slices.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or red pepper flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
One-Pot Chickpea and Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring chickpeas, aromatic vegetables, and a hint of spice. With only one pot to clean, this recipe is a quick and easy solution for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chickpeas, broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chickpea and Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl
This nourishing bowl combines the creamy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of chickpeas, all on a bed of fluffy quinoa. A perfect blend of textures and tastes to fuel your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potato several times with a fork and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook for 5 minutes, or until softened.
4. Add chickpeas, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and divide among bowls.
6. Top quinoa with roasted sweet potato, chickpea mixture, and chopped cilantro (if using).
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Quick Chickpea Hummus with Tahini
Enjoy a creamy and nutritious dip or spread with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Perfect for snacking, appetizers, or as a healthy addition to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Drain the chickpeas and transfer them to a blender or food processor.
2. Add the tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and water to the blender.
3. Blend on high speed for about 2 minutes, until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Chickpea and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the nutty taste of quinoa, all wrapped up in a vibrant bell pepper.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together chickpeas, quinoa, onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chickpea-quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the comfort of pasta and chickpeas, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. whole wheat pasta
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz.), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, olives, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, red onion, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time for pasta)
Chickpea and Kale Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of chickpeas with the earthy taste of kale, all wrapped up in a savory stir-fry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, chopped kale, and soy sauce. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the kale has wilted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Chickpea Tikka Masala
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional Indian-inspired tikka masala, using chickpeas as the protein source and simplifying the preparation process. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Drain and rinse chickpeas, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chickpea and Cucumber Yogurt Salad
This light and revitalizing salad is perfect for a hot summer day or as a healthy snack any time of the year. With the creamy texture of yogurt, crunchy cucumbers, and nutty chickpeas, this salad is a flavor explosion that’s both refreshing and nutritious.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber slices, and yogurt.
2. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and stir well.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Smoky Chickpea and Corn Tacos
Smoky Chickpea and Corn Tacos Recipe Summary:
This recipe combines the flavors of smoky chickpeas, sweet corn, and spicy taco seasoning to create a unique and delicious twist on traditional tacos. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together chickpeas, corn kernels, olive oil, onion, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the chickpeas are slightly caramelized.
4. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning roasted chickpea mixture into shells and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chickpea and Spinach Coconut Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the earthy taste of chickpeas and spinach. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or ghee, for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in spinach leaves; cook until wilted.
7. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea Flour Pancakes (Besan Chilla)
Experience the delightful taste of Indian-inspired breakfast with these crispy and flavorful Chickpea Flour Pancakes, also known as Besan Chillas. Made with chickpea flour, these pancakes are a great option for those looking for gluten-free and protein-rich breakfast options.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Optional: herbs like cilantro, mint, or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together chickpea flour and water until smooth.
2. Add salt, baking soda, and ghee/oil. Mix well.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the pan.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings like butter, chutney, or yogurt.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Chickpea and Carrot Fritters
These fritters are a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional fried treats, packed with protein-rich chickpeas and sweet carrots. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, they’re also vegan-friendly!
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 2 medium carrots, grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add grated carrots, flour, panko breadcrumbs, cumin, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix well.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 8-10 fritters, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place the fritters on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea and Tomato Coconut Rice
This flavorful one-pot dish combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the savory goodness of chickpeas, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, rice, water, and coconut milk. Stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with protein-rich chickpeas and dark chocolate chips, making them a great option for those looking for a healthier sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet 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, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, sugar, butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 easy and delicious chickpea recipes! From comforting curries and hearty stews to crunchy snacks and tasty treats, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re short on time or looking for new inspiration, these quick and flavorful ideas are sure to please. Discover how to make garlic butter chickpeas with spinach, crispy roasted chickpeas with smoked paprika, and many more mouthwatering dishes that showcase the humble chickpea’s versatility. Treat your taste buds and your busy schedule right!
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