Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas and Broccoli

If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously healthy snack or a satisfying side dish, look no further! Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas and Broccoli is where crispy texture meets cheesy flavor, creating a dish that is as nutritious as it is tasty. This recipe leverages pantry staples and fresh veggies to deliver a bold flavor and delightful crunch that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick snack, this dish is versatile and easy to make. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire.

Reasons to Love Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas and Broccoli

– **Nutritious**: Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas and vitamins from broccoli, this dish supports a balanced diet.
– **Versatile**: Enjoy it as a snack, a side dish, or toss it on a salad or grain bowl for a filling meal.
– **Quick & Easy**: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can have this dish ready in no time.
– **Flavorful**: The combination of nutritional yeast and fresh veggies gives it a cheesy taste without any dairy.
– **Crispy Goodness**: Roasting the chickpeas and broccoli brings out their natural flavors while providing a satisfying crunch.

What’s in the Bowl

This delightful recipe features a harmonious blend of ingredients that not only taste great together but also offer numerous health benefits. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained, rinsed, and patted dry (I recommend no salt added or low salt versions)
• Olive oil cooking spray, or a tiny bit of olive oil may be substituted
• 3 to 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 to 2 cups sugar snap peas
• 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 to 1 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• Fresh parsley, optional for garnishing

Equipment & Tools

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the following tools:

• Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet for roasting the chickpeas and vegetables.
• Large Mixing Bowl: To toss your ingredients together before roasting.
• Parchment Paper: Optional, but it can make for easier cleanup.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of your ingredients.
• Spatula: To stir and flip the chickpeas and broccoli while baking.

Mastering Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas and Broccoli: How-To

Let’s get started on creating this mouthwatering dish! Follow these simple steps for perfect Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas and Broccoli.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key to achieving that perfect crispiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Chickpeas

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chickpeas with a light spray of olive oil or a small amount of olive oil. Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of nutritional yeast, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chickpeas are evenly coated.

Step 3: Roast the Chickpeas

Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Prepare the Broccoli and Peas

While the chickpeas are roasting, prepare the broccoli florets and sugar snap peas. In a mixing bowl, drizzle with 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat.

Step 5: Combine and Roast

Once the chickpeas are done, remove them from the oven and add the broccoli and sugar snap peas to the baking sheet. Sprinkle with the remaining nutritional yeast (up to 1/2 cup) and toss everything together. Roast for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly crispy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

After roasting, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas and Broccoli!

No-Store Runs Needed

One of the best parts of this recipe is that it uses ingredients you likely already have at home. Here’s a list of common pantry staples that might already be in your kitchen:

• Canned chickpeas (or dry ones if you prefer cooking them from scratch)
• Olive oil (or any cooking spray)
• Nutritional yeast (a must for that cheesy flavor)
• Salt and pepper

And for the veggies, broccoli and sugar snap peas are often available fresh or frozen. This makes it a flexible recipe for those busy weeks when you don’t feel like running to the store.

Little Things that Matter

When making Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas and Broccoli, remember these little tips for the best results:

• Dry Chickpeas Well: Make sure to pat the chickpeas dry thoroughly after rinsing. This helps them achieve that perfect crispy texture while roasting.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your chickpeas and veggies plenty of space on the baking sheet. This allows for better air circulation and even roasting.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking. Garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even chili flakes can elevate the dish.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

If you’re looking to meal prep, Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas and Broccoli is an excellent option! Here are some tips for storing:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, rather than the microwave.
• Meal Prep Idea: Portion into containers with grains or salads for a balanced meal throughout the week!

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use frozen broccoli and peas instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli and sugar snap peas can be used! Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

Is nutritional yeast necessary for this recipe?

While nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor, you can omit it if you prefer. However, consider adding other seasonings to enhance the taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the chickpeas before roasting for a spicy kick!

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Just ensure they have similar roasting times for even cooking.

Similar Recipes

If you love Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas and Broccoli, you’ll want to try these delightful recipes as well:

• Spicy Roasted Chickpeas
• Roasted Vegetable Bowl with Quinoa
• Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Vegan Option)
• Chickpea Salad with Lemon and Herbs

Wrap-Up

Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas and Broccoli is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and wholesome ingredients. This dish is quick to prepare, satisfies cravings, and provides a healthy alternative to traditional snacks. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it straight from the oven, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.

In this journey of creating Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas and Broccoli, you’ve not only made a delightful dish but also embraced the joy of cooking. So grab your ingredients, fire up that oven, and get ready to indulge in a bowl full of cheesy goodness. Your taste buds will thank you!