If you are looking to add some extra crunch to your salads or wondering what to make for a snack this week- look no further than these crispy chickpea croutons! These roasted little gems are a great way to change it up. They’re gluten free, dairy free vegan and low-maintenance. You can whip them up with minimal ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Think simple, garlicky chickpeas transformed into versatile flavor bombs, ready to top your salads, garnish your soups or even become a healthy snack all on their own. Ditch the basic croutons and try out this healthier, gluten free topper!
Why You’ll Love These
They’re crunchy and crispy!
These chickpea croutons are super versatile.
They can be used on salads, soups or eaten alone as a delicious snack.
They’re gluten free, dairy free and vegan.
These croutons are easy to whip up!
This recipe requires minimal ingredients.
They are super kid-friendly!
What Are Chickpeas?
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are little nutritional powerhouses belonging to the legume family. Think of them as miniature protein and fiber nuggets! They’re typically round and beige, but some varieties come in green, black or even red. You’ll find them dried in bags or canned in the grocery store, ready to be transformed into everything from creamy hummus to crispy falafel. Be sure to try out my favorite homemade hummus recipe!
Equipment Needed
All you need to make these crispy chickpea croutons is a baking sheet.
Ingredients Needed
Chickpeas: I try to use organic chickpeas whenever possible. I am a huge chickpea fan and love all things chickpeas and hummus! They are a great pantry staple to have on hand.
Oil: I used avocado oil here!
Garlic Salt: I love using this on chickpeas! My favorite garlic salt is Redmond’s Real Salt because it is high-quality and made with zero fillers. If you use my discount code LESSWITHLAUR you can get 15% off Redmond’s website. You can also use garlic and salt separately if that’s what you have on hand.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Gather your ingredients and preheat oven to 400°F.
Step 2: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drain and rinse chickpeas. Pat dry. Pour chickpeas onto baking sheet and add oil, garlic and salt. Bake for 35-40 min, or until crispy. Option to broil at the end for 1 minute.
Storage
Store these crispy chickpea croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. These are best enjoyed immediately though!
Variations
Garlic Parmesan: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (vegan if needed) to the chickpeas after baking.
Lemon Dill: Toss the chickpeas with 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1 tsp fresh dill before baking.
Spicy Curry: Mix in 1 tsp curry powder and 1/2 tsp turmeric before baking.
Sweet and Smoky: Drizzle the chickpeas with 1 tablespoon maple syrup and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika before baking.
How to Serve
These crispy chickpea croutons can be served in a variety of ways! I love adding them to salads, soup or just eating them as a snack! Be sure to try them on my buffalo chicken caesar salad or try adding them to a hummus platter! These are also fun to throw in a trail mix!
Recipe FAQ
Do I have to remove the chickpea skin?
No! You do not need to remove the chickpea skin.
How long do chickpea croutons last?
These chickpea croutons last about 2 days. I recommend consuming them immediately for ultimate crunchiness!
Are garbanzo beans the same thing as chickpeas?
Yes!
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, feel free to double or even triple this recipe!
What are some ways to use chickpea croutons?
I love using these in salads, on soup, in trail mix or eating them plain!
Are these chickpea croutons gluten free?
Yes, they are naturally gluten free!
Related Recipes
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If you make these chickpea croutons and love them, I would really appreciate a 5 star review! I also love seeing your creations so please tag me on Instagram or TikTok.
Chickpea Croutons
Equipment
- 1 baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas
- 1 tbsp garlic salt
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drain and rinse chickpeas. Pat dry. Pour chickpeas onto baking sheet and add oil, garlic and salt. Bake for 35-40 min, or until crispy. Option to broil at the end for 1 minute.
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