College life isn’t kind to the carnivore. Meat is often expensive and time-consuming to cook, not to mention extremely perishable, and the Mystery Meat served in the caf won’t exactly sate a craving for prime rib. So what’s a girl gotta do for some quick, cheap, protein? Short of settling for cold cuts, which could possibly shorten your life and are very high in sodium, why not take a page out of the vegetarian handbook and opt for filling, delicious chickpeas?

This Week’s Ingredient: Chickpeas

Chickpeas, or garbanzo beans, are often very low in price and are great to have in the pantry as they keep very well. They have a wonderfully nutty, smooth flavor and are the primary ingredient in hummus. (Editor’s Note: Mmmmmmm hummus.) In addition to being a great source of fiber (which keeps you fuller for longer), chickpeas are high in molybdenum, a mineral necessary for the production of the enzyme sulfite oxidase, which breaks down sulfites–preservatives found in deli meats. Oh yeah, and they’re a lean source of protein, with 15 grams per cup.

Easy meals:

1. Toss over a salad for extra protein and flavor.
2. Roast for 35 mins at 350 degrees in a pan with diced eggplant, curry powder, tumeric, and pepper for a spicy, hearty, low-calorie side dish.
3. Mix with black- and kidney beans, basil, olive oil, and feta cheese for a light three-bean salad.

The Recipe: Chana Saag

Did you know that eating spicy food in the summer helps you stay cool? By doing so, your body starts to sweat and cool down, without actually raising your internal body temperature. No wonder hot-n-humid India has such a spicy cuisine! Try this easy version of a vegetarian favorite, chana saag, which is named for the two primary ingredients, chickpeas and spinach. Read More »

Nothing makes me happier than stir fry. For one, it’s sooo delicious. Two, it’s filling. Three? It’s ridiculously easy to make, and serves you for 2 dinners. Again, because I’m a weirdo and hate cooking meat in my tiny kitchen, this is listed without meat, but feel free to add chicken or beef if you so desire…

You need:

1 small can chunk pineapple

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

½ red onion, sliced

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

½ cup carrots, sliced/chopped

1 cup broccoli florets

1 cup sugar snap peas/snow peas in pods

¼ cup almonds (can be omitted per allergies)

Teriyaki sauce

Soy sauce

Garlic powder

1 cup brown rice

(**1 large can chicken broth can be substituted for water if you want more flavorful rice) Read More »