Garbanzo beans (also known as chickpeas) are a fantastic base for a variety of snacks! They are packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making them a healthy and satisfying option.

Here are some popular garbanzo snacks and ideas:

Classic & Easy

Roasted Chickpeas: This is probably the most popular garbanzo snack. You simply toss cooked (canned or dried and cooked) chickpeas with olive oil and your favorite seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, etc.) and roast them in the oven until crispy. They’re addictive!
Hummus: While often used as a dip, hummus is also a great snack on its own, especially with veggie sticks (carrots, celery, cucumber), pita bread, or crackers. You can make your own or buy store-bought. There are endless flavor variations too (roasted red pepper, garlic, spicy, etc.).
Falafel: These fried or baked patties made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices are a classic Middle Eastern snack or meal component. You can eat them on their own, in a pita, or with a dip.

More Creative Ideas

Chickpea Salad: Similar to tuna or chicken salad, you can mash chickpeas with mayo (or a vegan alternative), celery, onion, and seasonings for a delicious and filling snack. Serve it on crackers, lettuce wraps, or mini sandwiches.
Chickpea “Cookie Dough” (Edible): This is a surprisingly popular and healthy treat. Blended chickpeas are combined with sweeteners (maple syrup, honey), nut butter, vanilla, and chocolate chips to mimic cookie dough. Make sure to use canned chickpeas that are rinsed very well to minimize any bean flavor.
Chickpea Fries: You can make savory “fries” by blending chickpeas with flour and seasonings, shaping them into fry shapes, and baking or frying them.
Spiced Chickpeas (not roasted): You can simmer chickpeas in a flavorful broth with spices for a warm and comforting snack.
Chickpea Patties/Burgers (Mini): Smaller versions of chickpea burgers can be a great snack.

Tips for Making Garbanzo Snacks

Rinse Canned Chickpeas Thoroughly: This helps to reduce the sodium and any “beany” flavor.
Dry Chickpeas for Roasting: Patting chickpeas dry before roasting helps them get extra crispy.
Experiment with Seasonings: The possibilities are endless! Think sweet, savory, spicy, or smoky.
Storage: Roasted chickpeas are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days (they may lose some crispness). Hummus and chickpea salad should be stored in the refrigerator.

Garbanzo Snacks

Print Recipe

These garbanzo snacks are very healthy. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 1 1/2 cups
Category: Snacks
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika
1/2 tablespoon cumin (comino)
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

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Instructions

Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons oil in a skillet until super hot.
Add garbanzo beans and smooth to one layer. Every couple minutes shake the skillet to move the beans around. Garbanzos are done with caramelized and crispy on the outside. They will be tender in the center.
As soon as beans are removed from the skillet, sprinkle with a combination of paprika, cumin and cayenne, then toss to coat well.

Notes

Photo credit: (c) Can Stock Photo / bhofack2