Craving a delicious and healthy beach snack? These Crunchy Chili Lime Roasted Chickpeas are your new go-to! They’re incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfectly portable for your next sunny adventure.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Canned Chickpeas: Rinsed and dried well. You can also use other canned beans like cannellini for a different texture.
- Olive Oil: Or any neutral oil like avocado oil.
- Chili Powder: Adjust to your spice preference. Smoked paprika can add depth.
- Lime Juice & Zest: Fresh is best! Lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and thoroughly dried
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180
- Tools Needed: Baking sheet, parchment paper, large mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Chickpeas
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Ensure your chickpeas are very dry; this is key for crispiness. Gently blot them with a clean kitchen towel.
2. Season the Chickpeas
In a large bowl, combine the dried chickpeas with olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss everything until the chickpeas are evenly coated.
3. Roast to Perfection
Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden brown and crunchy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
4. Add Zest and Juice
Once roasted, remove the chickpeas from the oven. Immediately drizzle with fresh lime juice and sprinkle with lime zest. Toss gently to distribute the flavors.
5. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the crunchy chili lime roasted chickpeas to cool slightly on the baking sheet. They will become even crispier as they cool. These make a fantastic healthy beach snack!
Variation Ideas:
- Sweet & Spicy: Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey before roasting for a touch of sweetness.
- Herby Freshness: Stir in a tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro after roasting.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular chili powder for a deeper, smoky note.
- Garlic Parmesan: Add a teaspoon of onion powder and a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese after roasting.
Storage Instructions:
Store your crunchy chili lime roasted chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For best crunch, eat them within a day or two. You can re-crisp them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes if they lose their crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Why do I need to dry the chickpeas so well? Drying the chickpeas is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy texture. Excess moisture will steam them instead of roasting.
- Can I use canned chickpeas that haven’t been rinsed? It’s always best to rinse canned chickpeas to remove excess sodium and improve their flavor and texture.
- How do I know when the chickpeas are done roasting? They should be golden brown and feel firm and crunchy when pressed.
- Are these good for meal prep? Yes, you can make a larger batch and portion them out for your healthy beach snacks throughout the week.
- Can I make these in an air fryer? Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket frequently, until crispy.
- What if I don’t have fresh lime? You can use bottled lime juice, but fresh lime zest adds a brighter flavor.
