Herb-Roasted Chickpeas

A pantry-friendly snack that’s as easy to make as it is addictive, herb-roasted chickpeas are a great way to use up leftover chickpeas from hummus or add a healthy crunch to salads, soups, and grain bowls. With a few pantry staples and 20 minutes of your time, you can have a crispy, savory snack that will keep you coming back for more.

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, have been a staple food in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. They're a good source of protein, fiber, and iron, and they're also relatively inexpensive. Roasting chickpeas is a great way to bring out their nutty flavor and make them even more addictive. This recipe is inspired by the classic Italian dish of ceci arrosto, which is simply roasted chickpeas seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper. We've added a few extra herbs and spices to give our chickpeas a more complex flavor profile.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 ounces) of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss to coat.
4. Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the chickpeas are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Why It Works

• Roasting the chickpeas in a hot oven helps to create a crispy exterior while keeping the interior tender.
• The olive oil helps to coat the chickpeas and prevent them from drying out.
• The herbs and spices add flavor and complexity to the chickpeas.
• The salt and pepper help to enhance the flavor of the chickpeas.
• The chickpeas can be served warm or at room temperature, which makes them a great snack or side dish.