Ever found yourself snacking out of pure boredom, only to be disappointed by the same old options? Well, these crispy roasted chickpeas with garlic and lemon might just be the revelation your taste buds need – they’re like tiny flavor bombs! Imagine munching on something that’s not only crunchy but also bursts with zesty lemon and robust garlic, making every bite a moment of pure joy.
Steps
- Begin by heating a large frying pan over low-medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
- While the oil warms, peel and coarsely chop the garlic from one head.
- Once the oil is ready after about 4 minutes, add the chopped garlic and stir it into the oil.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly with cold water, then shake them dry.
- After lightly sautéing the garlic for 3 minutes, introduce the rinsed chickpeas, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, and season with sea salt and black pepper. Mix well, then add 1/2 cup of vegetable broth, ensuring everything is combined, and let it simmer in a single layer for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Once the broth has reduced by at least half, remove the pan from the heat.
- Grate the zest of half a lemon over the chickpeas, sprinkle with 1/4 cup of finely grated Manchego cheese, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Ingredients
- Garlic Skillet Chickpeas:
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (30 ml)
- 1 head of garlic
- 20 ounces of jarred cooked chickpeas (570 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme (0.50 grams)
- 1/2 cup of vegetable broth (120 ml)
- 1/2 lemon
- 1/4 cup of finely grated Manchego cheese (30 grams)
- Handful of finely chopped parsley
- Sea salt and black pepper
FAQ
- Can I use canned chickpeas instead of jarred ones?
- Yes, jarred Spanish chickpeas are similar to canned ones. Just make sure to rinse them under cold water before adding them to the pan to ensure they absorb all the flavors.
- What can I substitute for Manchego cheese in this recipe?
- You can substitute Manchego cheese with alternatives like Feta or Parmesan. For a vegan option, nutritional yeast or shredded vegan cheese can be used.
- Can this dish be frozen for later use?
- Yes, this dish can be frozen. If reheating, you might need to add a bit of broth to bring back the original texture and flavor.
- What can be served alongside Lemon-Garlic Skillet Chickpeas?
- This dish pairs well with a crusty baguette or a Spanish tortilla. It can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish.
- Is it necessary to cook the chickpeas on low-medium heat?
- Yes, cooking on low-medium heat preserves the soft texture of the chickpeas, ensuring they maintain a melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Tips
- Rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water before cooking. This helps them absorb the flavors better during the cooking process.
- Maintain a low to medium heat while cooking to preserve the soft texture of the chickpeas and achieve a pleasant melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- If you’re vegan or don’t have access to Manchego cheese, consider using nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative for a similar flavor profile.
- For a perfect serving suggestion, accompany the dish with a crusty baguette or a Spanish asparagus omelette to enhance the meal.
Equipment
- Garlic Skillet Chickpeas recipe, here is a list of main equipment that you might need to purchase if you don’t already have them at home:
- Nonstick Frying Pan – Essential for cooking the chickpeas without sticking.
- Vegetable Sieve or Strainer – For draining and rinsing the chickpeas.