Looking for the best ways to use chickpeas? From falafel and hummus to salads and sheet pan dinners, these 15 Easy Chickpea Recipes will make dinner planning a breeze!
The Best Chickpea Recipes
Chickpeas, aka garbanzo beans, are one of my favorite plant-based protein sources. You’ll always find a can or two in my cupboard! They’re cheap, they require minimal prep, and they are a great source of protein.
I think most of us think “hummus” and “falafel” when we think about chickpea recipes – and both of those dishes are amazing! – but there are so many other options.
Chickpeas are a small but mighty ingredient, one them can elevate dishes from nay to yay and if you’re using canned chickpeas, there’s hardly any prep to them. You can literally just drain, rinse, and add them to salads and other dishes!
What Do Chickpeas Taste Like?
One of the reasons that chickpeas are such a versatile ingredient is that they have a very mild flavor – much lighter than other beans. They do have a slightly earthy taste but in general, their flavor comes from whatever seasonings and other ingredients you cook them with.
Ways to use canned chickpeas:
- Hummus: Blend chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to make a smooth, creamy hummus perfect for dipping or spreading (see below).
- Salads: Add chickpeas to salads, such as kale salad, cucumber salad, etc for a boost of protein and fiber. They pair well with a variety of vegetables and dressings. (see ideas below)
- Chickpea Soups and Stews: Stir chickpeas into soups and stews for added texture and nutrients. They work especially well in Mediterranean, Indian, and Middle Eastern recipes.
- Roasted Chickpeas: Toss chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices, then roast or air fry until crispy for a healthy, crunchy snack. (see recipe below)
- Chickpea Curry: Use chickpeas as the main protein in a hearty curry, simmered with veggies, coconut milk, and a blend of fresh herbs and spices.
- Falafel: Grind chickpeas with herbs, onions, and spices, then form into balls or patties and air-fry or bake. (See my air fryer recipe below) Serve with tahini sauce.
- Pasta: Add it to pasta or noodles to add more protein and fiber.
- Grain bowls: Add it to quinoa, couscous, brown rice dishes along with vegetables or sweet potatoes to make a delicious grain bowl.
- Veggie Burgers: Mash chickpeas and mix with grains, vegetables, and spices to form patties for a vegetarian burger option.
- Chickpea Salad Sandwich: Mash chickpeas and mix with mayo or a vegan alternative, celery, onions, and spices for a filling sandwich spread.
- Baking: Use chickpea flour or aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a gluten-free flour alternative or egg substitute in baking.
15 Chickpea Recipes You Have To Try
And now, without further ago, my favorite garbanzo bean recipes for every occasion!
Air Fryer Falafel
Made with canned chickpeas, this Air Fryer Falafel is quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy with hummus as a snack or serve in a pita wrap for lunch or dinner.
Chickpea Salad Recipe
Made with tomatoes and cucumbers, this Chickpea Salad is perfect for summer. It makes an irresistible side dish when you’re grilling out or even a light lunch on its own.
Homemade Hummus Recipe
Hummus is probably one of the most well-known chickpea recipes and there’s nothing quite like making it from scratch. This quick and easy blender hummus is so creamy and takes just minutes to make.
Greek Chickpea Salad
With ingredients like cucumber, tomato, and feta, this Greek Chickpea Salad is fresh, filling, and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for meal prep too!
Chickpea Milanese
Chickpea Milanese is a vegetarian twist on the classic dish, this a chickpea flour cutlet topped with a salad, tomatoes, and fresh lemon. An easy dinner everyone will love!
Fiesta Bean Salad Recipe
With black beans, chickpeas, tomatoes, cilantro, and avocado in a cumin-lime vinaigrette this Fiesta Bean Salad is a powerhouse of flavor. A wonderful addition to potlucks and parties or as a side to grilled chicken.
