20 Dinner Recipes That Start With a Can of Chickpeas
Chickpeas are great for way more than just hummus.
Peyton Beckwith
Key Takeaways
Chickpeas are an easy and affordable ingredient for quick meals or a great topping or snack when roasted with seasonings like garlic or cumin.
A versatile, protein-rich pantry staple suitable for various dishes, chickpeas are a star in anything from soups and curries to pasta, tacos, and hummus.
Great to have on hand for impromptu hummus cravings or even egg-free baking, you'll find a can or two of chickpeas in most household pantries. But these creamy beans can go beyond the basics, as shown with our favorite dinners that start with canned chickpeas. From sippable dishes like soups and curries to hearty meals of pasta and tacos, there's nothing the mighty chickpea can't do.
Chana Masala (Savory Indian Chick Peas)
Layered with flavors, this decadent vegan curry begs to be served over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Middle Eastern Rice with Black Beans and Chickpeas
This all-in-one dinner contains rice, chickpeas, black beans, and turkey for a hearty meal. If you don't have turkey on hand, Allrecipes member JULIEP suggests subbing in ground beef, lamb, or pork.
The Best Healthy Ground Turkey Recipes
Vegetarian Chickpea Sandwich Filling
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
You only need a handful of ingredients to create this creamy and savory sandwich filling. Chickpeas are lightly mashed with mayonnaise, lemon juice, spices, and veggies to achieve a texture and taste similar to chicken or tuna salad. Serve it scooped over salad or tucked into a pita.
Chickpea Soup I
"This was the BEST soup that I have ever had," says reviewer BHUMBOH. "I've cooked a different soup each week for the last 3 months or so, and by far, this was the most delicious!"
Black Bean and Chickpea Chili
Pack in the veggies and legumes with this hearty chili recipe. By skipping the optional ground turkey and using vegetable broth, it magically becomes vegan-friendly too.
Related: 16 Side Dishes That Go Great With Chili
Pasta with Spinach and Chickpeas
This diverse Italian recipe can be made with any greens and any pasta shape you'd like, says Allrecipes member KIMBICA. All you need to round things out on the dinner table is a simple side salad and slice of crusty bread.
Air Fryer Vegetarian Cauliflower and Chickpea Tacos
By using the air fryer, these perfectly seasoned chickpeas and cauliflower become golden brown and crispy. Tuck them into a taco with your favorite toppings.
Related: This Allstar Has Four Air Fryers (And Loves Them All): 'I Couldn’t Go a Day Without One'
Butter Chickpea Curry
You've heard of butter chicken, but butter chickpeas might be your new favorite curry. The beans, potatoes, and onions all simmer in a creamy tomato sauce until tender.
Italian Chicken and Chickpeas
"Every year on Christmas Eve, my Nana makes a traditional Italian dish of baccala and chickpeas," says Allrecipes community member Kristin Turrell. "I created this for a quicker and less-expensive version. It's even better the next day!"
Stuffed Red Pepper with Quinoa and Chickpeas
Get a double dose of plant-based protein in these stuffed peppers with quinoa and chickpeas. The entire pepper can be frozen (goat cheese and all!) to be reheated later for a quick meal.
Tuna and Chickpea Salad
If tuna salad is a favorite, consider bulking it up with some chickpeas. Their mild taste and creamy texture add extra body without sacrificing flavor.
Vegan Kale and Chickpea Soup
"A warm vegan soup that my whole family loves," says Allrecipes community member rgansle. "Totally quick and easy, and super healthy to boot!"
Pasta Chickpea Salad
Unlike most pasta salads with chickpeas, in this version, the beans aren't just thrown in. Before mixing, the chickpeas are sautéed in olive oil over low heat with olives, herbs, and scallions until flavorful and slightly crispy.
Vegan Sweet Potato Chickpea Curry
Spicy garam masala and creamy coconut milk are the base for this decadent vegan curry. It's ready in just 30 minutes, making it almost faster than takeout.
Related: 20 Vegan Indian Recipes
Quinoa with Chickpeas and Tomatoes
This refreshing dish is delicious hot or cold. "I made this recipe tonight and it was great! Super easy for a busy mom," says reviewer yogini.
Garbanzo Tomato Pasta Soup
Tossed in a super garlicky tomato sauce, these chickpeas and pasta make for a hearty meatless meal. And the whole dish is ready in just 30 minutes!
Sweet and Spicy Curry with Chickpeas
Get a double dose of protein with turkey and chickpeas in this spiced curry. "This sauce goes well with rice or with pita bread," says Allrecipes community member Marcia. "What's great about this recipe is you can add as much spice as you would like."
Zucchini with Chickpea and Mushroom Stuffing
For a dinner as tasty as it is beautiful, try this recipe. "This dish is definitely a new favorite," says reviewer LITTLEBABY. "Really simple and SO tasty!"
Steak Chimichurri Dense Bean Salad
Peyton Beckwith
"This steak chimichurri dense bean salad combines marinated, grilled flank steak with beans, herbs, and a chimichurri vinaigrette," says Senior Producer Nicole McLaughlin. It’s even hearty enough to serve as a main.
Chef John's Minestrone Soup
"Absolutely wonderful. I’ve tried many recipes for this soup and I’ll stop looking now," says reviewer Margaret. "Takes a bit of time but worth all the effort. Thanks Chef John!"
Related: 17 Hearty Soups That Start With a Can of Beans
More Inspiration
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
Read the original article on ALLRECIPES
