Name: Harissa Chickpea Roast Snack Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491134H59M34S
Total time: PT-491134H59M34S
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chickpeas (approximately 1 can, drained and rinsed); 1½ tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon harissa spice blend; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ½ teaspoon lemon zest; Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish

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Introduction

This Harissa Chickpea Roast Snack is a flavorful and crispy treat perfect for snacking or adding to salads. Spiced with a smoky, spicy harissa blend and roasted to golden perfection, these chickpeas offer a delicious plant-based crunch that’s easy to make at home.

A white plate holds a pile of crispy roasted chickpeas that are golden-brown with some darker toasted spots. The chickpeas are evenly browned and covered with a reddish-brown spice mix giving them a textured, crunchy look. Scattered around and on top are small bits of bright yellow lemon zest adding a pop of color. There are also small sprigs of fresh green cilantro leaves spread across the chickpeas, providing a fresh contrast to the warm color tones. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chickpeas (approximately 1 can, drained and rinsed)
1½ tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon harissa spice blend
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon lemon zest
Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Thoroughly pat the chickpeas dry with a clean kitchen towel and remove any loose skins to enhance crispiness.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas with olive oil, harissa spice blend, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and sea salt. Toss until the chickpeas are fully coated.
Step 4: Spread the seasoned chickpeas evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 5: Roast in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through to ensure even crisping, until golden brown and crisp.
Step 6: Remove from the oven, then while still warm, toss the chickpeas with lemon zest and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley.
Step 7: Allow to cool slightly to maximize crunch before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, make sure to dry the chickpeas very well and remove loose skins before seasoning.
If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of harissa spice or substitute with a milder chili powder.
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or coriander for a different flavor twist.
This snack pairs wonderfully with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving for added brightness.

Storage

Store cooled chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain crispness. If they soften, you can re-crisp them in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a single layer of golden brown roasted chickpeas with a crispy texture. The chickpeas have dark toasted spots scattered evenly on each piece, showing they are well cooked. Bright yellow lemon zest is sprinkled over the chickpeas, adding a pop of color, along with fresh green cilantro leaves scattered randomly across the dish. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and simple background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but be sure to soak and cook the dried chickpeas fully before roasting. Also, dry them thoroughly to achieve the best crispiness.

What is harissa spice blend?

Harissa is a North African chili paste or spice blend made from dried chili peppers, garlic, cumin, coriander, and other spices. It adds a smoky, spicy flavor to dishes and can be found in many grocery stores or made fresh at home.