Healthy Recipe Blog Carnival - Chickpeas

Chickpeas are actually beans, garbanzo beans to give them their alternative name and although legumes, (as are peas) they are not technically peas - and they're certainly not chicks!

They are however, an awesome source of fibre with only two cups being an entire day's recommended amount. Chickpeas are low in fat and rich in vitamins and minerals. They are also high in protein, manganese and iron and have a low glycemic index which means they are good for stabilizing blood sugar levels. They help lower LDL, (bad cholesterol) and in studies, have been proven to satiate appetites quicker than most sources of protein and keep us feeling fuller longer. Good for weight loss, intestinal health...whats not to love...?

And to top it all, chickpeas are hugely versatile, being used in anything from soups, salads, curries and even deserts - try toasting them in olive oil and turmeric for a healthy snack! In fact don't just take my word for it, here are a bunch of tasty recipes I've gathered together from other fans. Just remember though; they're not chicks and they're not peas... :-)

Chickpeas with Chermoula, tomatoes and Spinach by Emma from A Splash of Vanilla
Chana Masala from Hot Pot Cooking
Coconut Ginger Curry Brown Rice Bowl by Julie from Peanut Butter Fingers
Braised Coconut Spinach & Chickpeas with Lemon by Faith from The Kitchn

Chickpea Carrot & Date Tajine by Anna from Your Healthy Place
Chocolate Hummus by Stef from the Cupcake Project
Slow Cooker Moroccan Apricot Chicken by Heather from Shrinking Kitchen
Baked Chickpea Burgers by Lindsay from Vegan Yumminess

Quinoa Salad with Pears, Baby Spinach & Chickpeas by gluten-free Goddess
Smoky Roasted Chicken with tomatoes and Chickpeas by Lynda from TasteFood

Roasted Chickpeas by Chanie from Busy in Brooklyn
Chocolate Peanut Butter Chickpea Cookies by Jessica from The Hungry Tortoise