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Chickpea Zucchini Skillet

This chickpea zucchini skillet is a quick, hearty dish that combines tender zucchini and smoky chickpeas sautéed in garlic and spices. The dish transforms humble pantry ingredients into a vibrant, crispy, and fragrant meal with a bright finish, perfect for weeknights. Its final texture is a satisfying mix of crispy edges and tender bites, with fragrant garlic and herbs tying it all together.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 15-ounce can canned chickpeas rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil preferably extra virgin
  • 2 medium zucchini sliced into rounds and halved or quartered
  • 3 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky depth
  • pinch chili flakes adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed for brightness
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to shimmer.
  2. Add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, until it turns golden and releases a warm aroma.
  3. Stir in the sliced zucchini, spreading them out evenly in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown at the edges and become tender with some crispy bits.
  4. Push the zucchini to one side of the skillet and add the rinsed chickpeas to the empty space. Let them sit for a minute to crisp up, then stir to coat them in the garlic and oil. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they develop a smoky, crunchy exterior.
  5. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the ingredients, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant and smoky.
  6. Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the skillet and tossing in chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. Stir everything together to combine.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat. Let it sit for a minute to allow flavors to meld, then serve hot, garnished with extra herbs if desired.