Cheesy Herbed Chickpea Bites
Okay, let's dive into the world of delicious, gluten-free snacking! I know, I know, sometimes "gluten-free" can feel like a code word for "boring," but I'm here to tell you—that's absolutely NOT the case, especially when it comes to snacks. I've been tinkering in the kitchen for years now, mostly because I adore food, but also because my wonderful niece unexpectedly developed a gluten intolerance a few years back. It was a real challenge at first – finding things she could *actually* enjoy that weren't just…sad. So, I took it upon myself to become a gluten-free snack champion, and today, I'm sharing one of my absolute favorites: Cheesy Herbed Chickpea Bites.
These little morsels are seriously addictive, and the best part? They're surprisingly healthy! Plus, they're incredibly versatile. Need a quick after-school bite? Got you covered. Looking for a savory snack while watching a movie? These are your new best friend. Hosting a party? Prepare to be amazed at how quickly they disappear. Honestly, even my gluten-loving friends are obsessed with these, which, let's face it, is the true test of a worthwhile recipe. Alright, enough chatting—let's get to the good stuff!
Cheesy Herbed Chickpea Bites
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20-25 minutes | Yields: Approx. 20 bites
Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup gluten-free oat flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Pinch red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), and grease a baking sheet.
- Mash the chickpeas in a medium bowl.
- Add remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly until combined.
- Form mixture into ~1in balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Tips & Tricks
- Flavor Fiesta: Don't be afraid to play around with the herbs and spices! Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, a bit of cumin and coriander for a Middle Eastern twist, or even some fresh dill and lemon zest for a Mediterranean vibe.
- Cheese Factor: If you're not a Parmesan person, feel free to swap it out for other cheeses like grated cheddar, mozzarella, or even a vegan "cheddar style" cheese.
- Veggie Power-Up: Sneak in some finely chopped veggies, such as spinach, zucchini, or bell pepper. Just make sure you squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing them into the batter.
- Baking to Freezing: These chickpea bites freeze really well! Bake them according to the recipe, let them cool completely, and then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. You can reheat them in the oven or even a toaster oven when needed.
- Sauce it Up: These little bites are great on their own, but they also taste amazing dipped in your favorite sauce. Think marinara, tzatziki, or honey-mustard.
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Product Recommendations
- A good baking sheet which I adore is essential to even baking these bites. I use mine consistently and it makes all the difference!
- Using a quality garlic press can save you time and reduce frustration, the key to any good cook!
- If you want evenly sized chickpea bites, a small cookie scoop will quickly become your best friend without sacrificing the look of your goods.
- My favorite gluten-free oat flour for consistent results can be purchased online easily nowadays.
Comments
Please let me know how they turn out for you in the comments below - I would love to hear your variations too!
Well, there you have it! My go-to recipe for Cheesy Herbed Chickpea Bites. They are simple, versatile, and incredibly delicious. I hope you love them as much as I do! Happy snacking!
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