This recipe for Cool Ranch Roasted Chickpeas from The Whole Smiths takes the flavors we love from our favorite chip and packs them into a healthy snack. Kid-friendly and grown-up approved, these chickpeas are gluten-free, dairy-free and delicious.

I confess, I’m a chip addict. I love all kinds of chips. Salty and crunchy things are my jam. I wouldn’t be surprised if you said they were you jam too. And yes, I am a huge Doritos fan, I just don’t eat them all of the time. I reserved them for things like football watching, PMS-ing or as a spur of the moment Target item.

Chickpeas are great for the zombie apocalypse.

You know what else is the jam? Chickpeas! They are so damn versatile and nutrients dense. In fact, they’re so amazing I decided they’d be my staple zombie apocalypse food. These are the places my 2020 mind took me, what cam I say? But really, hear me out. First off, they’re canned so they’ll last. Fantastic, note to self, bring a can opener.

They’re also really versatile. I can eat them straight out of the can (not recommended) add them to a fresh salad of sticks and berries (more ideal), or mash them up into a mushy paste and pretend like hummus is still a thing.

But fortunately for us, we aren’t in the middle of a zombie apocalypse (just a global pandemic) and can use them in more appealing ways.

Chickpeas are nutrient dense.

Not only are these tiny legumes versatile, but they’re nutrient dense. Chickpeas are great for you in terms of their nutritional profile. Some of the vitamins and minerals chickpeas contain include folate, manganese, iron, and copper. They have about 3 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber in just one ounce, and in turn may satiate your appetite.

Chickpeas vs. garbanzos. What’s the difference?

Nothing. “Chickpea” just sounds cooler than garbanzo beans which reminds me of a potluck salad from the late 70’s / early 80’s.

Chickpeas are versatile.

As you may have noticed in my zombie apocalypse scenario, there are are lot of ways to enjoy chickpeas. And they’re much more appealing than the zombie apocalypse scenario. Trust me.

One, this recipe. Roasted chickpeas are such a great snack and perfect for kids as well. You can add whatever seasonings you want to roasted chickpeas, like this cool ranch blend. I created a recipe for Cool Ranch Plantains in my first cookbook, The Good Food Cookbook. I took that same seasoning blend and added it to this recipe. It’s zesty, it has a tiny touch of heat and it’s a flavor explosion.

As well, you can blend chickpeas into a white bean dip, add it to a non-70’s style salad or even a shakshuka! (If you love shakshuka, make sure to check out my Moroccan Inspired Shakshuka.)

You can also turn your chickpeas into a sweet treat like this Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas. So yeah, lots you can do with them.

Before you go and try any of those other recipes, give these Cool Ranch Roasted Chickpeas a try.

TIPS

Make sure your chickpeas are as dry as possible prior to adding the olive oil and seasoning. This will help maximize the texture of this snack. After rinsing, I spread mine over a paper towel (and cover with one) to help dry them quickly.
If possible, try to find chickpeas packaged in a BPA-free lined can.
These will store in an air-tight container for about 5 days.

What is the difference between a chickpea and a legume?

Nothing!

Can I use another bean or legume for this recipe?

I wouldn’t suggest it as they do roast up to a different consistency.

Can I make a batch and freeze these?

I don’t recommend freezing them (unless you are preparing for a zombie apocalypse) as it will change the texture of the snack.

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