Ingredients
- Chickpeas: 2 cans (15 ounces each), drained and rinsed. The star of the show, providing a hearty and protein-rich base.
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons. Essential for crisping up the chickpeas and carrying the flavor of the herbs and garlic.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Adds a pungent and savory depth that is crucial to the overall taste profile.
- Dried Rosemary: 1 teaspoon. Offers a piney and aromatic note that complements the garlic beautifully.
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon. Provides an earthy and slightly minty flavor, enhancing the herbal complexity.
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon. Contributes a slightly peppery and robust flavor, rounding out the herb blend.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Enhances all the flavors and is essential for bringing out the best in the chickpeas.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Adds a subtle spice and balances the richness of the other ingredients.
- Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (or more to taste). For a touch of heat, if desired.
- Optional: Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped. For a fresh, vibrant garnish after roasting.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Chickpeas: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key to achieving perfectly crispy roasted chickpeas. While the oven is heating, thoroughly drain and rinse the canned chickpeas. Rinsing removes any excess starch and canning liquid, which can hinder crispiness.
- Dry the Chickpeas Thoroughly: This is a crucial step for achieving maximum crispiness. Spread the rinsed chickpeas out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Gently pat them dry, removing as much moisture as possible. You can even roll them around in the towel to ensure they are well-dried. The drier the chickpeas, the crispier they will become in the oven.
- Combine Ingredients in a Bowl: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the dried chickpeas, olive oil, minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. If you desire a touch of heat, add the optional red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Toss to Coat Evenly: Using a spoon or your hands, toss all the ingredients together until the chickpeas are evenly coated with the olive oil and spice mixture. Ensure that every chickpea is glistening with oil and well-seasoned. This even coating is vital for uniform roasting and flavor distribution.
- Spread Chickpeas on a Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the chickpeas instead of roasting them, resulting in a less crispy texture. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure a single layer.
- Roast in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the chickpeas are golden brown and crispy. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s important to keep an eye on them.
- Stir Halfway Through: About halfway through the roasting time, around 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and stir the chickpeas. This will ensure even cooking and crisping on all sides. Return the baking sheet to the oven to continue roasting.
- Check for Crispiness and Adjust Roasting Time: After 30 minutes, start checking the chickpeas for crispiness. They should be golden brown and firm to the touch. If they are not yet crispy enough, continue roasting for another 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning. The goal is to achieve a satisfyingly crunchy texture without them becoming too dry or hard.
- Remove from Oven and Cool Slightly: Once the chickpeas are roasted to your desired crispiness, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will crisp up even further as they cool.
- Garnish (Optional) and Serve: If desired, sprinkle the roasted chickpeas with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color. Serve them warm as a snack, side dish, or salad topping. They are also delicious at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 9g