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Chickpea Zucchini Skillet

This chickpea zucchini skillet is a quick, comforting dish that combines tender zucchini slices with crispy chickpeas, all sautéed with garlic and warm spices. It’s cooked in a single skillet, creating a vibrant, textured meal with savory and fresh notes, perfect for busy weeknights or when pantry staples are all you have on hand.
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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
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality for flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups zucchini sliced thin
  • 1 can (15 oz) canned chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin toasted in pan
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for depth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden—avoid burning it to keep the aroma fresh.
  3. Stir in the sliced zucchini, spreading it out evenly in the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini softens slightly and begins to turn golden at the edges.
  4. Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they crisp up slightly and develop a warm, golden hue.
  5. Sprinkle the ground cumin and smoked paprika over the mixture. Toast the spices in the pan for about 30 seconds until aromatic, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the zucchini to become tender but not mushy.
  7. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the skillet and toss in chopped parsley or cilantro. Stir briefly to brighten the flavors and evenly distribute the herbs.
  8. Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute. Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs if desired, for a vibrant, textured, and flavorful meal.