Mexican Chickpeas

Looking for a vibrant, nutritious dish that brings the flavors of Mexico to your table? Look no further than these delicious Mexican Chickpeas! Packed with protein and flavor, this dish is not only versatile but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a side, or a topping, you’ll love how these chickpeas come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and delightful. Let’s dive into the reasons you’ll fall in love with this recipe and how to make it!

Reasons to Love Mexican Chickpeas

Mexican Chickpeas are a fantastic option for anyone looking to add a burst of flavor to their meals. Here are a few reasons to adore this dish:

• Rich in protein and fiber, making it a filling choice.
• Versatile enough to be served in countless ways – as a salad, taco filling, or grain bowl topping.
• Quick and easy to prepare – perfect for busy weeknights.
• Loaded with spices that bring authentic Mexican flavors to your table.
• Great for meal prep, keeping well in the fridge for several days.

What Goes Into Mexican Chickpeas

Before we get cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 (15.5-ounce) cans chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans); drained, rinsed, and dried
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon ground chili powder (see note 2)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 limes
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves and stems
• 1/2 tablespoon coarsely chopped jalapeño (seeds and ribs removed)
• 1/3 cup sour cream (fat-free/lite works great)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoon honey
• 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa or 1 (8-ounce) packet precooked quinoa (see note 4)
• 1 large ripe avocado

Recommended Tools

Having the right tools can make cooking a breeze. Here’s what I recommend:

• Large skillet – for sautéing the chickpeas and spices.
• Mixing bowls – to combine the ingredients for the dressing.
• Spatula – for stirring and flipping the chickpeas.
• Measuring spoons – to ensure you get your spices just right.
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping your veggies and herbs.

Mexican Chickpeas Cooking Guide

Now that we have everything prepped, let’s get started on making these delicious Mexican Chickpeas!

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

Begin by draining, rinsing, and drying your canned chickpeas. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they get crispy when cooked.

Step 2: Season the Chickpeas

In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the dried chickpeas to the skillet. Sprinkle them with chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chickpeas evenly with the spices.

Step 3: Cook the Chickpeas

Sauté the chickpeas for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are crispy and golden brown. The spices should become fragrant, filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

While the chickpeas are cooking, prepare the dressing. In a mixing bowl, combine the juice of 2 limes, 1 clove of minced garlic, cilantro, chopped jalapeño, sour cream, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and honey. Whisk until smooth.

Step 5: Combine with Quinoa

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the sautéed chickpeas. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss everything together until well mixed.

Step 6: Prepare the Avocado

Slice the ripe avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and green. You can either cube it or slice it for a beautiful presentation.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Mexican Chickpeas warm, garnished with avocado slices on top. You can also add extra lime wedges and cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Fit It to Your Goals

One of the best things about Mexican Chickpeas is their versatility. Here’s how you can adapt this recipe to fit your dietary goals:

• Low-Carb Option: Skip the quinoa and serve the chickpeas over a bed of greens for a refreshing salad.
• Vegan Option: Replace sour cream with a plant-based alternative and omit the honey or replace it with maple syrup.
• Spicy Option: Add more jalapeño or even some diced chipotle peppers for an extra kick.
• Meal Prep: Double the recipe and portion it out for lunches throughout the week!

Chef’s Notes

Feel free to customize the spices based on your taste preferences. If you like it spicy, add some cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. You can also mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the quinoa and chickpea mixture for added nutrition and color.

• For a creamier dish, increase the amount of sour cream.
• Chickpeas can be roasted in the oven at 400°F for a crunchier texture instead of sautéing.
• Use fresh herbs like parsley if cilantro isn’t your favorite.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

Mexican Chickpeas are freezer-friendly! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through. The flavors will continue to meld, making them even more delicious!

Mexican Chickpeas FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas! Soak them overnight and cook them until tender before following the recipe as directed.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional ingredients you use, like sauces or dressings, are also gluten-free.

What can I serve with Mexican Chickpeas?

Mexican Chickpeas pair wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or as a topping for nachos. They also work great in tacos or burrito bowls!

How long do leftovers last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, leftovers of Mexican Chickpeas will last in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just reheat before serving!

Because You Liked This

• Spicy Black Bean Tacos
• Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Bowls
• Creamy Avocado Pasta
• Zesty Lime Chicken Salad

Serve & Enjoy

Once you’ve prepared your Mexican Chickpeas, it’s time to dig in! Serve them warm, and watch as everyone at your table enjoys this flavorful dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something delicious, these Mexican Chickpeas are sure to please. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the satisfaction of a meal that’s as wholesome as it is tasty. Happy cooking!