Garbanzo beans, or chickpeas as they are lovingly called are known for their nutty flavor. This popular legume provides a range of nutrients, including protein, which is necessary for bone, muscle, and skin health. A cup of chickpeas provides almost 1/3 of an adults daily protein needs. The American Diabetes Association recommends chickpeas as a natural source of dietary fiber which may benefit those with diabetes. The iron, calcium and other nutrients in chickpeas can all contribute to healthy bone structure and strength. Chickpeas can play a role in the diet of people who want to prevent osteoporosis. Try them in this delicious recipe below!
Couscous with Chickpeas, Dried Apricots, Pistachios and Marinated Feta
Ingredients
- 11/2 cups (300g) couscous
- 350ml chicken or vegetable stock
- 1/2 tsp saffron threads, crumbled
- 150g dried apricots, roughly chopped
- 25g unsalted butter
- 400g can chickpeas, rinsed, drained
- 200g drained marinated feta, crumbled
- Handful of flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped, plus extra sprigs to serve
- 1 preserved lemon quarter*, flesh and white pith removed, rind finely chopped
- 2/3 cup (100g) pistachio kernels
1. Place the couscous in a large heatproof bowl and set aside. Place stock, saffron and a pinch of salt in a saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to the boil. Add apricot and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter. Pour hot stock over couscous, cover with plastic wrap and stand for 10 minutes or until liquid has been absorbed.
2. Remove the plastic wrap and fluff couscous with a fork. Add chickpeas, feta, chopped parsley, preserved lemon rind and pistachios to the couscous, season with sea salt and freshly ground pepper and toss to combine. Garnish with parsley sprigs and serve.