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Herby Chickpeas with Lemon and Cumin

Warm chickpeas tossed with toasted cumin, lemon, garlic and a big bunch of fresh herbs: a five-minute, protein-rich side.

Serves 4 as a side10 minutesPlant-basedGluten-freeRich in protein, fibre, B vitamins and iron

Ingredients

  • 2 × 400 g tins chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • A large handful each of parsley, coriander and mint, chopped
  • ½ red onion, finely chopped

Method

  1. Toast the cumin: heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a pan and toast the cumin seeds for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  2. Warm the chickpeas: add the chickpeas and garlic and warm through for 3–4 minutes.
  3. Dress: tip into a bowl and toss with the remaining oil, lemon juice and zest, red onion and herbs. Season well.

Why it's good for you: Chickpeas are an excellent source of folate (vitamin B9), which the body needs to make healthy new cells, along with B6, plant protein, iron and fibre. The generous herbs and lemon add vitamin C, which helps the iron be absorbed, and cumin has long been used to ease digestion.

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