Roasted Chickpeas: The Perfect Crunchy Meal Addition

Looking for a way to dress-up your everyday meals? Roasted chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans) lend a savory, delicious crunch and flavor to any of your favorite dishes. Through it in salads, soups, stir-fries . . . anything! You can even snack on them on their own - who needs chips?

One half cup of chickpeas contains approximately:
         - 100 Calories
         - 20 g CHO
         - 7 g Fiber
         - 6 g Protein
         - 1 g Fat

*Note: I always choose the lowest sodium option available when buying canned beans, and I rinse them before using. The nutrition information varies slightly depending on which brand you use*

Chickpeas are a great source of fiber. Approximately two thirds of the fiber content found in chickpeas is from insoluble fiber. This means insoluble fiber DOES NOT dissolve in water. It adds bulk to your stool, and increases the passage of food through your stomach and intestines. Long story short: it keeps you regular ;) . Fiber helps you to stay full longer since it slows down digestion. In addition, fiber has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, and may decrease the risk of colon and rectal cancers. EAT YOUR BEANS : )

Basic Roasted Chickpeas

Ingredients:

1 can Chickpeas (preferably no-salt-added), rinse, drained, patted dry
Sea salt to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400.
2. Place chickpeas on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray.
3. Spray chickpeas with a non-stick spray or olive oil mister. Sprinkle with sea salt.
4. Bake for about 30-40 minutes until lightly browned and crispy!

Make it sweet:

Same as above, but omit the salt and add cinnamon and stevia!

Make it spicy:

Same as above, but add paprika, chili powder, cumin, etc., anything goes!