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.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free, Plant-Based
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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Garlic, Chickpea, Zucchini, Stir-Fry, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Plant-Based, Quick, Healthy, Protein-Rich