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Garlic Chickpea Zucchini Stir-Fry

Garlic Chickpea Zucchini Stir-Fry

Garlic Chickpea Zucchini Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful plant-based dish that combines protein-rich chickpeas, fresh zucchini, and aromatic garlic. Ready in under 30 minutes, it offers a nourishing, vibrant meal perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches, while being adaptable to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained (or 1.5 cups cooked dried chickpeas)
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons or cubes
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Spices & Seasoning

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches

  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Rinse and drain canned chickpeas or cook dried chickpeas in advance. Wash and slice zucchini into half-moons or cubes. Finely mince the garlic. Having all ingredients prepped before cooking ensures a smooth process.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and golden, taking care not to burn it to avoid bitterness.
  3. Cook Chickpeas and Zucchini: Add chickpeas to the pan and stir well, allowing them to warm and lightly brown. Add zucchini and stir continuously to ensure even cooking without mushiness, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Season the Stir-Fry: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients, letting the spices toast slightly and blend with the flavors.
  5. Finish with Freshness: Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the stir-fry. Toss in fresh herbs if using for a burst of brightness and color.

Notes

  • Use firm zucchini to maintain texture and avoid sogginess.
  • Avoid overcooking garlic to prevent bitterness; cook it just until fragrant and golden.
  • Drain chickpeas well to prevent excess moisture in the stir-fry.
  • Adjust spice levels by adding red chili flakes or hot sauce gradually according to taste.
  • If preparing large quantities, cook zucchini separately to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Nutrition

Keywords: Garlic, Chickpea, Zucchini, Stir-Fry, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Plant-Based, Quick, Healthy, Protein-Rich