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In the world of healthy eating, lettuce boats have carved out a niche as a versatile and delicious meal option. These ingenious creations allow you to swap traditional bread or tortillas for crisp, refreshing lettuce leaves, providing a light yet satisfying alternative. The concept is simple: fill a sturdy piece of lettuce with a flavorful filling, and you have a meal that is not only low in calories but also high in nutritional value. This is where our recipe for Crispy BBQ Chickpea Lettuce Boats comes into play.

Crispy BBQ Chickpea Lettuce Boats

Discover the delightful world of healthy eating with Crispy BBQ Chickpea Lettuce Boats! This simple yet satisfying meal swaps traditional bread for crisp lettuce leaves, creating a light and nutritious option for any occasion. Packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant vegetables, these boats offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a party appetizer, these versatile delights cater to various dietary preferences while keeping taste front and center. Enjoy a meal that’s good for your body and your taste buds!
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Ingredients
  

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/3 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)

1 head of Romaine lettuce, leaves separated

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 avocado, diced

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Lime wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Chickpeas: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas. Pour in the olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chickpeas thoroughly until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.

      Roast the Chickpeas: Spread the seasoned chickpeas out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, shaking the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even cooking, until the chickpeas are crispy and golden brown.

        Glaze with BBQ Sauce: Once roasted, remove the chickpeas from the oven and drizzle the BBQ sauce over them. Stir to ensure all the chickpeas are evenly coated in the sauce. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize and enhance its flavor.

          Prepare the Lettuce Boats: While the chickpeas are roasting, take your Romaine lettuce and gently wash the leaves. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Select larger inner leaves to serve as sturdy boats for your filling.

            Assemble the Boats: Spoon a generous amount of the crispy BBQ chickpeas into each lettuce leaf. Top with halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and diced avocado for a burst of color and flavor.

              Garnish and Serve: Add a final touch by garnishing each lettuce boat with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick that complements the flavors beautifully.

                Enjoy your delightful and healthy Crispy BBQ Chickpea Lettuce Boats!

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6