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Creamy High Protein Pesto Chickpea

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Creamy High Protein Pesto Chickpea is a quick and satisfying dish featuring tender chickpeas coated in a rich basil pesto and Greek yogurt sauce. Packed with plant-based protein and fresh flavors, it works beautifully as a main course, side dish, or meal-prep lunch.

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons water, if needed for thinning
  • 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly, then pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the chickpeas and season with salt and black pepper.
  4. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and lightly golden.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pesto, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and garlic.
  6. Add water as needed to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
  7. Stir the warm chickpeas into the pesto mixture until evenly coated.
  8. Fold in the spinach, cherry tomatoes, and red onion if using.
  9. Garnish with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil leaves.
  10. Serve warm or chilled.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, use dairy-free yogurt and vegan pesto.
  • Toss with cooked pasta for a hearty pesto chickpea pasta meal.
  • Add grilled chicken, tofu, or edamame for extra protein.
  • Serve over quinoa, rice, or farro for a filling grain bowl.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing is not recommended because the creamy sauce may separate after thawing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/creamy-high-protein-pesto-chickpea/