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14 Recipes With a Can of Chickpeas (That Aren’t Hummus) 

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January 21, 2025

Chickpeas are one of the most versatile pantry staples around. While they’re best known for their role in creamy hummus, these nutrient-packed legumes are much more than a dip ingredient. From hearty Mediterranean salads and grain bowls to comforting stews and even indulgent desserts, a single can of chickpeas can be transformed into various creative and delicious dishes.

If you’ve got a can in your pantry, these recipes are the perfect way to put it to good use — no hummus required.

1. Falafel With a Twist 

This recipe from Angela Liddon is a delicious take on her Oil-Free Baked Falafel Bites, featured in the Oh She Glows Cookbook. The difference between these and the usual falafel: these ones are baked, not fried, and made with extra healthy fats from ground flaxseed. Served with a bright and creamy lemon-tahini dressing, this recipe is a hit in our house. Our family loves the falafel bites as a go-to topping for salads and dinner bowls.

Try the recipe from Oh She Glows

 

2. Healthy Mediterranean Grain Bowl 

This well-balanced grain bowl from registered dietitian Alex Evink packs 8 grams of fiber and 30 grams of protein per serving. Made with chicken, quinoa, chickpeas, fresh veggies, feta cheese, and a simple olive oil vinaigrette, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day.

Try the recipe from Moderately Messy RD.

 

3. Asparagus Couscous Salad with Feta and Chickpeas 

This vibrant pearl couscous salad from registered dietitian Elysia Cartlidge combines roasted asparagus, chickpeas, and feta for a versatile dish that shines at summer picnics, BBQs, and as meal prep. Tossed with a refreshing lemon olive oil dressing, this vegetarian recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and will surely be a crowd-pleaser. 

Try the recipe from Haute and Healthy Living

 

4. Chickpea Salad with Tahini Dressing

Registered dietitian Joby Neelankavil’s salad delivers the flavor of a hummus sandwich in a refreshingly deconstructed way. Featuring classic hummus ingredients poured over a vibrant chickpea and veggie salad, it’s a creative twist on lunch or dinner.

Try the recipe from Joby’s Test Kitchen

 

5. Mediterranean Pesto Pasta With Chicken, Veggies, and Chickpeas

Registered dietitian Amy Lawson’s pesto pasta is a fresh, colorful, and satisfying dish. It’s endlessly versatile — use your favorite vegetables or seasonal produce to make it your own.

Try the recipe from Thrive Nutrition RDN

 

6. Slow Cooker Vegan Cholent 

This cholent recipe from registered dietitian nutritionist Melissa Traub is a vegan twist on a classic Jewish dish traditionally enjoyed for Shabbat lunch. Packed with chickpeas, lentils, and vegetables, it delivers 17 grams of plant-based protein and 19 grams of fiber per serving. 

Try the recipe from Melissa Traub

 

7. Quick, Easy, and Healthy Vegan Chickpea Salad Recipe 

Looking for a healthy, vegan lunch idea that’s both delicious and satisfying? This chickpea salad sandwich from Julie Pace, RDN is a must-try. Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, it’s ideal fuel for keeping your energy levels up throughout the day. The combination of red grapes and pecans adds a delightful balance of savory and sweet. Every bite is a burst of flavor! 

Try the recipe from Core Nutrition Health and Wellness.

 

8. Mediterranean Chickpea Artichoke Salad Jars

These salad jars are the ultimate portable lunch or quick dinner option. They feature layers of artichokes, chickpeas, and sun-dried tomatoes, all tossed in a mouthwatering lemon garlic dressing. Shake it all up and grab a fork.

Try the recipe from Kelsey Sackmann, RD.

 

9. Amy’s Kale and Chicks

This simple skillet recipe combines nutrient-packed kale with fiber- and protein-rich chickpeas for a quick, wholesome dish. Loaded with folate, calcium, vitamin K, and antioxidants, it’s as nourishing as it is easy to prepare — all you need is a cast-iron skillet.

Try the recipe from The Rebellious RD

 

10. Roasted Chickpeas Snack Recipe

Roasted chickpeas are a classic way to turn a can of chickpeas into a crunchy, satisfying snack. This versatile recipe from registered dietitian Jessica Colon is a great base. Once you’re comfortable with the recipe, try switching up the flavors with spice blends like taco seasoning, curry powder, or za’atar to keep things exciting.

Try the recipe from The Messy Dietitian

 

11. Chickpea Blondies

How many desserts can claim they’re loaded with protein and fiber? These chickpea blondies are among the few. Sweet and fudgy, they also happen to be vegan and gluten-free. No one will guess the secret ingredient.

Try the recipe from Melissa Smith Nutrition.

 

12. Healthy Chickpea Cookie Dough Bites

Make these easy, no-bake cookie dough bites with just eight simple ingredients you likely already have at home. Vegan, gluten-free, and boosted with protein powder, they’re a satisfying and wholesome snack. 

Try the recipe from Haute and Healthy Living.

 

13. Air Fryer Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites

Ready in just 10 minutes, these cookie bites are a healthier take on chocolate chip cookies. Thanks to the air fryer, they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. 

Try the recipe from Thrive Nutrition RDN

14. Sweet Potato Vegan Edible Cookie Dough 

This unique sweet potato and chickpea dip created by Sarah Schlichter, RD, is a vegan and gluten-free take on edible cookie dough. Perfect for dessert, it pairs beautifully with fruit, chocolate, or graham crackers.

Try the recipe from Bucket List Tummy.

 

Read next: 10 Incredibly Delicious Ways to Turn a Can of Chickpeas Into Dinner.

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