Baked Chick Peas

It's been a much needed lazy weekend.  This has been the first weekend in weeks where we had absolutely no plans.  The big snowfall that hit us on Friday/Saturday gave us some justification to stay in, catch up on movies we've been wanting to see, and try some new red wines we've stocked up on:-)  Sometimes you just need this kind of time.

Even when we have lazy days, I always keep healthy snacks around.  This weekend, I made a huge batch of baked chick peas on Saturday morning.  Chick peas are great because they are small and perfect to nibble on.  They are packed with fiber AND protein- a combination that makes you full longer.  And, when baked up with a few seasonings, they become a crunch-satisfying, nutritious snack.

You have to try this super easy recipe.  This snack is great just to have around or have out for a party.  I haven't met anyone who doesn't like these.

Preheat Oven to 375degrees
What you'll need-
One large Cookie Sheet (I use one with a 1/2inch high edge to prevent the chick peas from rolling)
Aluminum Foil
3 Cans of Low Sodium Chick Peas
Garlic Sea Salt
Onion Powder
Ground Black Pepper
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Cayenne Pepper (If you can take the heat!)

Line your cookie sheet with foil to help with easy clean up.  Drain & rinse all 3 cans of chick peas.  Spread them out evenly over the cookie sheet. Drizzle olive oil over chick peas. Sprinkle your seasonings over top.  With clean hands, move around the chick peas to ensure they are all fully covered in olive oil and seasonings (this gets kind of messy).  Bake for 45mins to 1 hour. An hour gets them really crispy! Remove, let cool, & enjoy!  These can be stored in a Tupperware container or zip-lock bag and are also a great snack on the go!