The truth about garbanzo beans!

"Im hungry I need a snack!" You say? We'll let me share a couple of garbanzo bean recipes packed full of flavor that will NOT let you down! Planning your meals in advance can be hard enough as it is but if you have something like these prepped and ready to make or even made in advance you will thank yourself later! A couple of months ago I was introduced to  baked crunchy garbanzo beans. If you hate garbanzo beans you must try this recipe. Roasted slow, these beans transform into a crunchy corn nut like snack you won't believe they are garbanzo beans! These are protein and fiber packed foods to help curb hunger before meals!

ROASTED GARBANZO BEANS

Ingredients:

1 can Garbanzo beans

Drizzle of olive oil

Seasonings of choice * examples at the end of recipe

Preheat your oven to 350*

Open, drain and rinse your garbanzo beans. Spread paper towel down on counter and pour the beans on. Take another paper towel and gentle roll the beans to remove excess water.  I usually let them sit for 5-10 minutes to ensure the liquid is gone. The outside of the beans may come off and that's ok just toss the outer part. Place your beans on a baking sheet. Roast in oven for 15 minutes. Remove from oven drizzle with olive oil and seasonings of choice*. Return to oven shaking pan every 15 minutes until browned and crunchy, about 45 to 50 minutes, or longer for more crunch. Remove from oven, let cool. Use on salads or as a snack. 

* examples of seasonings to use

 -chili powder and garlic powder

 - garlic powder and red pepper

 -chili lime seasoning 

  I have only tried savory garbanzos but you can also make sweet like with cinnamon and sugar

Ok here is the second to die for healthy snack.

SPINACH, EDAMAME, GARLIC HUMMUS

Ingredients:

4 garlic cloves

1½ cup fresh edamame, shells removed, if using frozen, defrosted

1½ cup fresh spinach, stems removed

1 can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained

¼ cup olive oil

¼ cup water

4 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

11/2 teaspoon cumin

½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, to taste

Instructions

1. This dip can be made in a food processor, mini chop or blender. In a food processor: add the garlic and pulse until chopped.  Add all remaining ingredients and process until smooth.  If still too thick, add more water until you reach desired consistency.  Taste.  Add more salt, if desired and red pepper flakes, if you want it spicier. Mix again.

2. If made using a mini chop or blender, you may need to process in 2 batches. Add batches to a bowl and mix to blend together.

Makes 2½ cups. Serve with Pita Chips or fresh veggies.

Enjoy!

~D