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Spicy Toasted Garbanzo Beans and Pistachios

This vibrant vegan snack combines protein-rich roasted chickpeas with buttery pistachios for a satisfying crunch. Infused with earthy cumin, aromatic fresh thyme and a gentle hit of cayenne pepper, these spicy toasted chickpeas offer a sophisticated balance of flavours. They are a fantastic alternative to traditional crisps or nuts, providing a savoury, fibre-packed nibble that works beautifully alongside a cold drink or as a textured topping for salads and soups.

Quick to assemble using tinned cupboard staples, this healthy homemade snack can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for stress-free entertaining. The contrast between the crisp legumes and the toasted nuts ensures every handful is packed with variety. While they are at their absolute best served warm from the oven, they remain wonderfully moreish once cooled to room temperature.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Spicy Toasted Garbanzo Beans and Pistachios

  • 2 15 1/60g cans garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained

  • 60ml corn oil

  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper

  • 130g shelled raw pistachios

  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

How to make Spicy Toasted Garbanzo Beans and Pistachios

Preheat oven to 204°C. Toss garbanzo beans with next 5 ingredients in medium bowl. Transfer mixture to rimmed baking sheet. Bake until garbanzos are golden and crisp, stirring occasionally with metal spatula, about 20 minutes. (Can be made 4 hours ahead. Keep at room temperature.)

Stir pistachios and thyme into garbanzo mixture. Bake until beans and pistachios are crunchy, about 12 minutes. Transfer mixture to bowl and serve warm.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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