Looking for a snack that’s both delicious and good for you? Look no further. Our Spiced Chickpea Crunchies tick all the boxes. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these crunchies offer a nutritious boost any time of the day. So, let’s dive in and see how you can make this scrumptious snack.
Top Reasons to Love These Crunchies
Firstly, chickpeas are a fantastic source of protein, essential for muscle and body repair, making these crunchies a powerhouse of nutrition. Secondly, they are low in calories, which means you can enjoy a guilt-free snack that’s high on satisfaction. Lastly, a blend of spices gives these crunchies an irresistible taste that’s hard to beat.
Prep & Cooking Time:
- Preparation Time: 5 mins
- Cooking Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
Nutritional Breakdown
(per serving, with the entire dish divided into 4 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 160 calories. The caloric content primarily comes from the chickpeas and olive oil.
- Proteins: 6g. Chickpeas are a good vegetarian source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Carbohydrates: 23g. The majority are from chickpeas, including complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Fats: 4g. This includes healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil.
- Fiber: 5g. Chickpeas are high in fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Chickpeas are rich in iron, magnesium, and potassium, supporting heart health and muscle function. They also provide B vitamins, crucial for energy metabolism. The spices, albeit in small quantities, add antioxidants and may offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Simple Steps to Snack Heaven
Prep Your Chickpeas
To start, ensure your chickpeas are rinsed and thoroughly dried for that unbeatable crunch.
Get Seasoning
Next, toss the chickpeas in olive oil and spices until they’re evenly coated. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Bake to Crunchy Perfection
Then, lay them out on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes. Remember to shake them halfway through for an even bake.
Time to Snack
Finally, let them cool, and then dive into your crunchy, spicy chickpeas!
Why They’re a Smart Choice
Spiced Chickpea Crunchies are not only a breeze to whip up but also bring a wealth of health benefits to your diet. Each serving is a protein-packed delight that also contributes significantly to your daily fiber and iron intake. With the goodness of olive oil and chickpeas, these crunchies are particularly heart-friendly, thanks to their healthy fats and fiber content, making them a smart snack option for health-conscious individuals.
Ready, Set, Enjoy!
With all these benefits, it’s clear that these Spiced Chickpea Crunchies are an ideal snack for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. Therefore, give them a try and enjoy snacking away without any guilt!
FAQ Section: Spiced Chickpea Crunchies
Q: What ingredients do I need to make Spiced Chickpea Crunchies?
A: The main ingredients for Spiced Chickpea Crunchies are chickpeas, olive oil, sea salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and optionally, a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Q: How do I achieve the perfect crunchiness when baking chickpeas?
A: To get that ideal crunch, make sure to thoroughly rinse and dry the chickpeas before seasoning and baking. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and bake at a high temperature, shaking the pan halfway through for even cooking.
Q: Can I adjust the spiciness of Spiced Chickpea Crunchies?
A: Yes, you can easily adjust the level of spiciness. For a milder flavor, use less smoked paprika and omit the cayenne pepper. To make them spicier, add more spices or cayenne pepper according to your taste preferences.
Q: Are Spiced Chickpea Crunchies gluten-free?
A: Yes, they are naturally gluten-free since they contain no gluten-containing ingredients. However, always double-check the labels of spices to ensure they are gluten-free, especially if you have gluten sensitivities or allergies.
Q: How do I store leftover Spiced Chickpea Crunchies?
A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. If they lose their crunchiness, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.
Amazing !!