The thought of chickpeas (a.k.a. garbanzo beans) often brings to mind only hummus, but there are so many more possibilities. Often underestimated, chickpeas are actually a great source of protein and fiber. Adding chickpeas to your diet will help you eat less and stay full longer, not to mention they are a delicious addition to any meal.
1. Chickpea, Avocado & Feta Salad
This salad is perfect for a quick lunch or even an afternoon snack, and it takes almost no time to prepare. The salad blends only a few simple ingredients: chickpeas, avocado, feta, cilantro and lime. The mix between the tang of the feta cheese and the more laid-back flavor of the avocado and chickpeas forms a perfect healthy trio.
2. Hummus
You can never go wrong with a classic. This notion applies to movies, music and, of course, chickpeas. At the core, the recipe only requires lemon juice, olive oil, garlic and chickpeas. With a few extra spices, you can certainly make it fun and tasty, but the basics are just as good, and any variation is healthy. Dip your favorite veggies like carrots or bell peppers in it for a delicious and filling snack.
3. Roasted Chickpeas
For a quick pick-me-up, this snack is the perfect thing. Make a big batch of roasted chickpeas at the beginning of the week and it’s almost guaranteed they’ll be gone by Friday. The best thing about this recipe is that you can make it whatever flavor you want: sweet, sour, spicy or tangy.
4. Chickpea Soup
This soup is not only great tasting and healthy, but it’s also the perfect meal for a cold day or the days you catch a cold. This heartwarming, protein-filled soup will hit the spot with the tang of lemon juice and the texture of cooked carrots. Best of all, you can cook it all in one pot and it only takes about 30 minutes.
5. Chicken Chickpea Chopped Salad
With so many fresh, colorful ingredients, this recipe is easily changeable and will work any time of year. If you don’t like tomatoes, simply substitute red bell pepper or carrots. The same goes for corn and avocado, but be sure to keep those chickpeas in there for extra fiber and protein.
Use these recipes to up your chickpea intake and improve your diet. Trying out new ways to eat a great ingredient is always fun, even if you don’t make it perfectly the first time. Incorporating chickpeas into your favorite dishes is another great way to eat this powerful superfood.
Photo credits: www.ambitiouskitchen.com