Chickpeas, also known as Garbanzo beans, are native to India, the Middle East and Areas of Africa. Like other beans, they grow in pods on a vine. Before they fully ripen, they are bright green in fresh, fuzzy pods, similar to edamame (a bean for a later time)!
These delicious beans are considered both a vegetable and a protein because of all their nutrients. Some people even consider them to be superfood. Chickpeas are very high in Manganese. Did you know, a cup of chickpeas has about 1 milligram of Manganese which is nearly 74% of your daily value? WOW!
Chickpeas are also high in choline, a nutrient that aids brain function. Just imagine, by including chickpeas in your diet you are already helping your body and brain function better – 2 birds with one stone!
Chickpeas are inexpensive and remarkably easy to add into your diet. You can find chickpeas at your local grocery store, canned or dried.
Chickpeas are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, fibers and protein which makes them a nutritious choice. You can try roasting chickpeas for a crunchy snack or a fan favorite; a delicious Mediterranean Chickpea Salad for a fresh lunch!
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Recipe
What you need: ½ cup of finely diced red onion; 2 cans of chickpeas rinsed and drained; 1 ½ cups chopped fresh parsley; 1 red bell pepper chopped; 1 orange bell pepper chopped; 1 green bell pepper chopped; ½ large cucumber chopped and ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese; Dressing; 3 tbsp EVOO; 3 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 cloves minced garlic; 1 ½ tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper
What to do: Place the onions in a bowl of cool water and let them soak while you prepare your other ingredients. Place the chickpeas, parsley, bell peppers, cucumber and feta in a large bowl. In a small bowl, make your dressing. Stir together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper. Drain your red onions and add them to the chickpea mixture, then pour the dressing over top. Toss your ingredients and enjoy!!