National Chickpea Day
Did you know chickpeas aren’t really peas? They’re garbanzo beans! As one of the earliest cultivated vegetables in history, they come from a plant and are considered to be both a vegetable and a protein because they are so nutritious.
Chickpeas are what’s known as a complete protein because they contain all nine essential amino acids, which are building blocks that help our bodies function properly. In addition, chickpeas are also brimming with vitamins and minerals and are rich in teeth-strengthening phosphorus and folic acid.
This plant-based food packs a nutritional punch – and can both add flavor to savory dishes and bulk up sweet treats. Their nutty taste also make them perfect for snacking any time.
Because chickpeas are so full of nutrients, they provide multiple health benefits including:
- Promote weight control
- Prevent constipation
- Promote cardiovascular health
- Help control blood sugar
- Serve as a substitute for those with gluten sensitivity
- Keeps your mouth healthy by promoting cell growth
If you haven’t given the chickpea a try, in honor of National Chickpea Day, try this quick and easy recipe.
Spicy Roasted Chickpeas
Ingredients
2 cans (15 ounces each) garbanzo beans
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon sea salt
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375 F.
- Drain cans of garbanzo beans and rinse with water.
- Spread beans on paper towel and let dry for 30 minutes.
- Line a cookie sheet with foil or parchment paper and spread dried beans evenly on sheet.
- Bake for 40 to 60 minutes until crunchy.
- Transfer to a bowl and mix with olive oil.
- Stir in seasonings.
- Enjoy!
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