Recipe Round Up 8: Ode to a Chickpea
Happy National Nutrition Month! Looking for some flavor-packed, healthy vegetarian alternatives? Look no further. I LOVE chickpeas! The garbanzo bean is so versatile and packed with fiber, protein, and key micronutrients such as iron, potassium, and calcium. And if you’re feeling inspired, you can even whip and use the aquafaba (the liquid inside cans of chickpeas) for some fun dessert recipes!
Chickpeas are super easy to toss with olive oil, spices such as paprika, chili powder, cinnamon, or cumin, and roast for 20-25 minutes for a quick, crunchy snack or salad topping. I’ve shared a couple of my favorite go-to chickpea recipes previously, but read on for your new favorite legume recipes!
Basmati Turmeric Rice Pilaf (side or main dish)
Chickpea Cookie Dough (dessert)
Sometimes keeping it simple is best. This super easy chickpea fritter recipe from Food & Nutrition Magazine comes together quickly with just a few ingredients. Yet, the lemon juice and basil lead to a punch of flavor that makes them a great addition to your salads or other mixed veggies!
Butternut Squash & Chickpea Falafels
You may remember that I have a thing for vegetarian meatball alternatives. This is one you’ll want to bookmark! Once Upon a Pumpkin shares a great recipe for a funky squash falafel complete with a sauce to go with it! I don’t always make the sauce, especially if I’m not looking to embrace the late fall flavors (like in March) so you can’t go wrong either way!
There are TONS of pre-made veggie burger patties out there, fresh and frozen, and many are incredibly delicious. But nothing compares to a homemade dish with fresh ingredients. These Thai chickpea burgers from Peanut Butter Fingers are crispy, flavorful, and delightfully filling! They sneak in extra veggies and spices that you don’t find in traditional burgers. You won’t miss the meat at all!
Move over, sugar-packed chocolate sauce. Strawberry has a new sidekick. This chocolate hummus spread is a great dessert swap for traditional chocolate syrups or melted chocolates. And hey, with so much nutrition in the spread, a few dark chocolate chips on top won’t hurt!
Try these out for some delicious vegetarian recipes to celebrate Meatless Monday and beyond all year long!
Cheers & Namaste!
Jess