9 Delicious Ways to Use Chickpeas in Your Vegan Cooking

Chickpeas are a powerhouse in vegan cooking. They add great flavor and are a must-have in any plant-based kitchen.

From classic hummus to crispy snacks and even desserts, there are endless ways to use them. If you’re looking to add more variety to your meals, you’re in the right place.

Here are 10 delicious ways to use chickpeas that will take your vegan cooking to the next level.

1. Classic Hummus and Variations

Hummus is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy chickpeas. This creamy, protein-packed dip is perfect for spreading, dipping, or adding to meals.

How to Make Classic Hummus

1. Blend 1 can of chickpeas (drained, save the liquid) with ¼ cup tahini, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 garlic clove, ½ tsp salt, and 2 tbsp olive oil.
2. Add aquafaba (chickpea liquid) gradually for a smoother texture.
3. Blend until creamy, adjusting salt and lemon to taste.

Pro Tip: For ultra-smooth hummus, peel the chickpeas before blending!

Tasty Hummus Variations

• Spicy Jalapeño – Add fresh jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Herby Green – Blend in basil, parsley, or cilantro.
• Sun-Dried Tomato – Mix in sun-dried tomatoes and a dash of smoked paprika.
• Roasted Garlic – Roast garlic cloves and blend for a deeper flavor.

Hummus is versatile—use it as a dip, sandwich spread, or salad dressing. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days for easy, healthy snacking!

2. Chickpea Curries and Stews

Chickpeas make the perfect base for hearty curries and stews. They absorb bold flavors well and add protein to plant-based meals.

Chana Masala (Indian Chickpea Curry)

This spicy, tangy curry is packed with warming spices.

How to make it:

1. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala.
3. Stir in chickpeas and diced tomatoes, then simmer until thick.
4. Finish with lemon juice and fresh cilantro.

Creamy Coconut Chickpea Stew

For a milder, comforting option, try a coconut-based stew.

Steps:

1. Sauté onions and bell peppers.
2. Add curry powder, chickpeas, and tomatoes.
3. Pour in coconut milk and let it simmer.

Moroccan-Inspired Chickpea Stew

This version includes carrots, bell peppers, cumin, paprika, and cinnamon for a rich, slightly sweet flavor.

Pro Tips:

• Toast spices before adding liquid for depth.
• Mash some chickpeas for a thicker texture.
• Let it simmer longer for better flavor.

3. Roasted Chickpea Snacks

Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, protein-packed snack that’s easy to make and completely addictive.

Whether you like them savory, spicy, or sweet, they’re a great alternative to chips or nuts.

How to Make Crispy Roasted Chickpeas

1. Drain and rinse canned chickpeas, then pat them completely dry.
2. Toss with a little olive oil and your favorite seasonings.
3. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway.

The key to crispiness is drying the chickpeas well and not overcrowding the pan.

Flavor Ideas:

• Spicy – Smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder
• Savory – Sea salt, black pepper, rosemary
• Herby – Italian seasoning, nutritional yeast
• Sweet – Cinnamon, maple syrup, a pinch of salt

Enjoy roasted chickpeas as a snack, a crunchy salad topper, or mixed into grain bowls.

Pro Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days (if they last that long!).

4. Chickpea Salads

Chickpeas are a great way to add protein and texture to salads. They make any salad more filling and can be used in a variety of fresh, flavorful combinations.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

This light and zesty salad is packed with fresh veggies and herbs.

How to make it:

1. Mix chickpeas, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and bell peppers.
2. Add chopped parsley and mint for freshness.
3. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Chickpea “Tuna” Salad

A plant-based twist on tuna salad—creamy, tangy, and delicious!

How to make it:

1. Mash chickpeas slightly with a fork.
2. Stir in vegan mayo, diced celery, red onion, and lemon juice.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and seaweed flakes for a seafood-like taste.

Chickpea salads are easy, customizable, and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy them in wraps, sandwiches, or on their own!

5. Chickpea Burgers and Patties

Chickpeas are an excellent base for homemade vegan burgers and patties.

They’re protein-rich, easy to shape, and packed with flavor.

Basic Chickpea Burger Recipe

1. Mash 1 can of chickpeas (leave some chunks for texture).
2. Mix in ¼ cup breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp flaxseed (or chickpea flour), diced onion, garlic, and seasonings.
3. Add a splash of lemon juice or soy sauce for extra flavor.
4. Shape into patties and cook in a pan (5 minutes per side) or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.

Flavor Variations

• Mediterranean – Add sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and oregano.
• Spicy Kick – Mix in cayenne, smoked paprika, and jalapeños.
• Herby Garlic – Use parsley, dill, and roasted garlic.

Serve your chickpea patties in a bun with lettuce and tomato or over a salad for a lighter option.

These patties freeze well, making them perfect for quick meals!

6. Chickpea Flour Recipes

Chickpea flour aka gram flour is a protein-rich, gluten-free alternative that works great in vegan cooking.

It’s perfect for making flatbreads, pancakes, and even egg-free omelets.

Socca (Chickpea Flatbread)

A crispy, savory flatbread from France that’s easy to make!

How to make it:

1. Mix 1 cup chickpea flour, 1 cup water, 1 tbsp olive oil, and ½ tsp salt into a smooth batter.
2. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Pour into a hot, oiled skillet and bake at 450°F for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.

Vegan Chickpea Omelet

A delicious egg-free alternative for breakfast.

How to make it:

1. Mix ½ cup chickpea flour, ½ cup water, ¼ tsp turmeric, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir in chopped onions, peppers, or spinach.
3. Cook like a pancake in an oiled pan until golden brown.

Chickpea Flour Pancakes

Savory or sweet, these are great for any meal. Just add spices, herbs, or maple syrup to the batter!

7. Chickpeas in Vegan Baking

Believe it or not, chickpeas can be a secret ingredient in vegan baking! They add moisture, protein, and a soft texture to cookies, blondies, and even cakes—without any eggs or dairy.

Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies

Soft, chewy, and packed with protein!

How to make it:

1. Blend 1 can of chickpeas (drained), ¼ cup nut butter, ¼ cup maple syrup, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Stir in ½ tsp baking powder and ½ cup chocolate chips.
3. Scoop onto a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes.

Chickpea Blondies

A fudgy, guilt-free treat!

How to make it:

1. Blend chickpeas, peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla.
2. Mix in baking powder and chocolate chips.
3. Bake until golden brown.

Chickpea Cookie Dough (No-Bake)

Craving cookie dough? Blend chickpeas with nut butter, sweetener, and chocolate chips for an edible, protein-packed treat!

8. Chickpea Pasta and Noodle Dishes

Chickpea pasta is a high-protein, gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta.

It’s great for adding extra nutrients to your meals while keeping them delicious and satisfying.

Simple Chickpea Pasta with Garlic & Tomatoes

A light and flavorful dish that’s ready in minutes!

How to make it:

1. Cook chickpea pasta according to package instructions.
2. Sauté garlic and cherry tomatoes in olive oil.
3. Toss the pasta with the tomato mixture, add fresh basil and a pinch of salt.

Chickpea Noodle Soup

A comforting, protein-packed twist on classic minestrone.

How to make it:

1. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a pot.
2. Add vegetable broth, cooked chickpeas, and small pasta shapes.
3. Simmer until flavors meld, then season with herbs and lemon juice.

Chickpeas in Pasta Sauces

For extra texture and protein, mix whole chickpeas into your favorite pasta sauce—whether it’s marinara, pesto, or creamy cashew Alfredo.

9. Chickpea Sandwich Fillings

Chickpeas make a fantastic base for creamy, protein-packed sandwich fillings.

Whether you’re craving a tuna-style mix or something bold and spicy, these plant-based options deliver all the flavor without any dairy or meat.

Chickpea “Tuna” Salad

A delicious vegan take on classic tuna salad.

How to make it:

1. Mash 1 can of chickpeas with a fork (leave some chunks for texture).
2. Mix in vegan mayo, diced celery, red onion, and lemon juice.
3. Add a pinch of black salt for an eggy flavor.
4. Serve on bread, toast, or in a lettuce wrap.

Buffalo Chickpea Sandwich

For a spicy, tangy kick!

How to make it:

1. Mash chickpeas and mix with buffalo sauce and a splash of vegan ranch.
2. Pile onto a toasted bun with lettuce and extra ranch dressing.

Mediterranean Chickpea Wrap

A fresh, herby option.

How to make it:

1. Mash chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin.
2. Spread onto a wrap, add fresh veggies, and roll it up.

Time to Get Cooking!

Who knew chickpeas could be such kitchen heroes?

From satisfying snacks to show-stopping main dishes, these mighty legumes prove that plant-based eating is anything but boring.

The best part? Most of these recipes are budget-friendly and meal-prep champions, making healthy eating a breeze.