Bored of your go-to meals? This one easy dish takes hardly any active time and it can add a ton of pizazz to any meal or snack! I love to eat them on their own or use them as a topping with some of my favorite meals.

Crispy chickpeas are actually one of the first foods I ever learned to cook. I was 12 years old and oh so proud. Just slip these bad-boys in the oven for 20-40 minutes and you’ve got an instant hit.

Chickpeas are also a major superfood. They are loaded with fiber – 12.5 grams in a cup – and pack quite a protein punch. Fiber and protein also work together to help stabilize blood sugar  (i.e. no sugar highs of crashes throughout the day) and leave you feeling full and satisfied.

Crispy Baked Chickpeas (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free)

Serving size: 1/2 cup Servings per recipe: 3

INGREDIENTS

1.5 cups canned or cooked chickpeas
1 tbs olive oil
3/4 tsp cumin
½ tsp coriander
1/8 tsp cayenne
1/8 tsp chili powder
¼ tsp sumac (optional, don’t worry if you can’t find it)
1/2 tsp salt

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375.
2. Mix chickpeas, oil and spices in a large bowl so the chickpeas are all well coated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking.
4. Place on lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, stirring after 10 minutes.
5. Some people like their chickpeas very crunchy and dry, while others prefer them softer. Adjust baking time depending on your preference.

And in case you need some fresh ideas, here are 6 ways to use these crispy chickpeas to boost the nutritional value and flavor of any meal or snack.

1. Eat them instead of popcorn or chips! These crispy guys provide the salt, the crunch, and unlike popcorn or chips, a ton of protein.
2. Mix them with yellow raisins for a sweet and salty treat. This is actually a traditional way of eating them in countries like Greece and Morocco. These are great for the 2pm slump as you’ll get a quick energy boost from the sugar in the raisins, and some longer-lasting energy from the chickpeas.
3. Add them on top of salads instead of croutons. They’re naturally gluten-free and don’t pack empty calories like croutons.
4. Make your own buddha bowl! Add chickpeas to a bowl with brown rice and steamed greens and you have a complete meal. Top with your favorite dressing.
5. Try them on top of oatmeal for a savory breakfast or add them on top of scrambled eggs for a heartier breakfast with some crunch.
6. Love avocado toast? Add some crispy chickpeas for a fun new topping. The contrasting colors are also great for photos and making your guests drool!