Spicy Lemon Herb Chickpea Sauté

A quick and flavorful sauté of chickpeas seasoned with lemon and smoked paprika, offering a delightful, zesty kick.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 15 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This releases the aromas and flavors of the garlic, enhancing the dish's base.
2. 2.
   Add the drained chickpeas to the skillet, spreading them out in a single layer. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, and stir to coat the chickpeas evenly. Continue cooking for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chickpeas start to turn golden and slightly crisp. Adjust heat as needed to avoid over-browning.
3. 3.
   While the chickpeas are sautéing, zest the lemon. Add the zest directly to the skillet. The lemon zest provides a burst of citrus flavor that complements the smokiness of the paprika.
4. 4.
   Squeeze the juice of the lemon over the chickpeas, stirring well to combine. The acid from the lemon juice will deglaze the pan, lifting any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, and enhance the overall brightness of the dish.
5. 5.
   Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more smoked paprika or salt if needed. Once chickpeas are crispy and flavorful, remove from heat. Transfer to a serving dish and drizzle with a touch more olive oil if desired for added richness. Serve warm.