The black chickpea spread is a simple and nutritious preparation, ideal to serve as an appetizer or aperitif on crunchy crostini. Black chickpeas are an ancient legume, rich in proteins, fibers, and natural antioxidants, with a more pronounced and intense flavor, slightly more rustic compared to classic yellow chickpeas.
This spread is made with a few simple ingredients: cooked black chickpeas, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of spices to taste. The result is a soft and velvety texture, perfect for accompanying toasted bread, breadsticks or as a base for gourmet canapés.
A plant-based and genuine alternative to classic sauces, great for those following a vegetarian diet or those looking for a light yet flavorful dish. Perfect to serve as an appetizer, aperitif, or finger food during dinners and special events.
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Cost: Very cheap
- Preparation time: 5 Minutes
- Portions: 4 People
- Cooking methods: Other
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 7 oz black chickpeas (already cooked)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 lemon (juice)
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- 1 clove garlic
- to taste salt and pepper
Steps
1. Preparing the chickpeas
Soak the dried black chickpeas for at least 24 hours in cold water.
Rinse them and simmer for about 2 hours until they are soft.
Alternatively, you can use already cooked black chickpeas to speed up the recipe.
2. Preparing the spread
Place the black chickpeas in a blender with all the ingredients from the list and blend until a velvety texture is achieved.
3. Adjust seasoning to taste
Taste the spread and adjust with salt and pepper.
If you like a spicy touch, add cumin or sweet paprika to taste.
4. How to serve
Spread the black chickpea spread on warm, crunchy crostini.
Finish with a drizzle of raw oil and, if desired, sesame seeds or fresh herbs.
Storage: the black chickpea spread keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Pairings: also excellent as a dip for vegetable sticks, dressing for cold pasta, or base for gourmet canapés.
Nutritional Value of Black Chickpeas
Black chickpeas are a valuable source of:
– Plant proteins
– Fibers
– Iron and magnesium
– Natural antioxidants (thanks to the dark skin)
A perfect dish for those looking for a healthy and nutritious plant-based appetizer.
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
Can I use regular chickpeas instead of black ones?
Sure! You’ll get a lighter, more delicate spread, similar to traditional hummus.
How can I make the spread more flavorful?
You can enrich it with spices (smoked, sweet, or hot paprika, curry, cumin) or add toasted seeds as a topping.
