Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

These Spicy Roasted Chickpeas are a crunchy, flavorful, and healthy snack that’s easy to make and packed with protein and fiber. With a blend of spices and a crispy texture, they’re the perfect alternative to chips or other processed snacks. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own, tossing them into a salad, or using them as a crunchy topping for soups, these roasted chickpeas are a must-try!

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for added freshness)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
2. Drain and rinse the chickpeas under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel, ensuring they are as dry as possible. The drier the chickpeas, the crispier they will be once roasted.
3. Optional: For extra crispiness, you can peel the skins off the chickpeas, but this is not necessary.

Step 2: Season the Chickpeas

1. In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chickpeas are evenly coated in the oil and spices.

Step 3: Roast the Chickpeas

1. Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, shaking the baking sheet or stirring the chickpeas halfway through to ensure even cooking.
3. Keep an eye on them towards the end, as they can burn quickly once they’re crispy. The chickpeas should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Remove the chickpeas from the oven and let them cool slightly. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
2. Optionally, drizzle with a little lemon juice for added brightness, and garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Serve as a snack, topping for salads, or add them to soups for extra crunch!

Tips and Variations:

• Adjust the spice level: Increase or decrease the cayenne pepper depending on how spicy you want your chickpeas.
• Sweet and spicy: For a sweet and spicy twist, add a little maple syrup or honey to the seasoning mixture.
• Add more herbs: Try adding oregano, thyme, or rosemary for more flavor depth.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 week. They’re best enjoyed immediately after roasting for maximum crispiness but can be reheated in the oven to crisp them up again.

Conclusion

These Spicy Roasted Chickpeas are the perfect healthy snack that’s both crunchy and satisfying. With just the right amount of spice and a crisp, golden texture, they make a great snack for movie night, a crunchy salad topping, or an on-the-go bite. Full of protein and fiber, they’re both filling and nutritious!