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Marinated Chickpeas

Marinated Chickpeas
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Marinated Chickpeas offer a protein-packed, flavorful dish perfect for salads, snacks, or as a versatile side. Tender chickpeas are combined with a vibrant marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, fresh herbs, and warming spices to create a wholesome and delicious option that is easy to prepare and makes a nutritious addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chickpeas

  • 1 can (15 oz) cooked chickpeas, rinsed and drained (or 1 ½ cups cooked dried chickpeas)

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Fresh Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water to remove excess sodium and impurities, ensuring a clean and fresh flavor.
  2. Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined to form a vibrant marinade.
  3. Combine and Toss: Add the rinsed chickpeas to the marinade and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every chickpea evenly with the flavorful mixture.
  4. Add Fresh Herbs: Fold in the finely chopped parsley or cilantro carefully, preserving the herbs’ freshness and brightness in the dish.
  5. Marinate and Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 to 6 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully.

Notes

  • Use cold water to rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly for better flavor and to remove preservatives.
  • Gently massage the marinade into the chickpeas to help absorption without breaking their texture.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving to maintain their vibrant flavor and color.
  • Adjust the acidity by balancing lemon juice with olive oil to avoid an overpowering tang.
  • Marinate overnight for the best flavor development and depth.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; flavors improve with time.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it can affect texture and herb freshness.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature; let sit briefly if removed from the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: marinated chickpeas, chickpea salad, vegan protein, gluten free appetizer, quick healthy snack, Mediterranean chickpeas

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/marinated-chickpeas/