Masala Roasted Chickpeas: A Healthy Diwali Snack for Families

Masala Roasted Chickpeas: A Healthy and Savory Diwali Snack Rooted in Tradition

By Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

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Time to Read: 9 min

As a mom who grew up celebrating Diwali in an Indian household, this festival holds a special place in my heart. Diwali, the Festival of Lights , is a time for family, delicious food, and reflecting on the triumph of good over evil, light over dark, and knowledge over ignorance. It’s a joyful, colorful celebration, and I love sharing these traditions with my children here in the U.S.


One of the things I’ve carried with me is the importance of balancing tradition with health—something I keep in mind, especially around holidays. While sweets are central to Diwali, I like to include savory snacks in our celebration that reflect the flavors of India while also being nutritious. One of our favorite Diwali snacks is Masala Roasted Chickpeas —they’re crunchy, full of spice, and perfect for introducing kids to Indian flavors in a healthy way.


I love serving them in Ahimsa Smart Snacking Bowls , which add a beautiful pop of color to the table while keeping the celebration sustainable and safe. These stainless steel bowls are perfect for little hands and ideal for both warm and room-temperature snacks.

About Ahimsa

Founded by a pediatrician and mom of three

Stainless steel is the only kid-friendly material recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics 

We are guided by a Scientific Advisory Council comprised of environmental and medical experts, guiding us in creating the safest products, following the latest science and promoting policy to protect human health and our planet

Want to know more? Check out our story and our products

Ahimsa: Our Family’s Tradition and the Inspiration for My Business

As a Pediatrician and the founder of Ahimsa , a stainless steel dinnerware company, I wanted to bring the concept of health and sustainability to everyday life. In Indian households, using stainless steel at the dining table is common—it’s durable, sustainable, and safe, reflecting our cultural value of reducing harm to the environment. Growing up, my family always used stainless steel plates and bowls, and I wanted to share this tradition through a new modern version - and so Ahimsa was born.


When I serve Diwali snacks in Ahimsa bowls or compartment plates , it feels like bringing a piece of my heritage to the table. They’re practical, long-lasting, and reflect the value of reducing harm to the environment—something I’ve carried with me into adulthood. These products offer the durability of traditional stainless steel with the added beauty of vibrant, Indian-inspired colors, making them perfect for festive gatherings and everyday meals alike.


Our products are designed with families in mind—using non-toxic, stainless steel materials and Indian-inspired colors and tones to offer a beautiful and safe alternative to plastic. I always like to stress that we want to be mindful about putting healthy food onto our healthy dinnerware so let’s dive into a delicious nutritious snack to put into Ahimsa bowls!

Must Have Stainless Steel Products

A Simple, Savory Diwali Recipe: Masala Roasted Chickpeas

 

Prep time

15 minutes

Cook time

20-25 Minutes

Servings

5-6

Category

Snack

One of the simplest and healthiest Diwali snacks I love making is Masala Roasted Chickpeas . They’re crunchy, flavorful, and packed with protein and fiber. This recipe is super easy for anyone to make—even if you’re new to Indian cooking. The spices in this recipe are staples in Indian kitchens and will bring a warm, aromatic touch to your Diwali spread.


Ingredients:


  • 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp cumin powder

  • 1 tsp coriander powder

  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder (for anti-inflammatory benefits and color)

  • 1/2 tsp paprika or chili powder (adjust for spiciness)

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

  • Lemon wedges (optional, for extra zing)

Instructions:


  1. Preheat the oven : Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Dry the chickpeas : Pat the chickpeas dry to ensure they get crispy when roasting.

  3. Mix the spices : In a small bowl, combine the cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

  4. Coat the chickpeas : Toss the chickpeas in olive oil, then sprinkle the spice mixture over them. Mix well so the chickpeas are evenly coated.

  5. Roast : Spread the chickpeas on the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, shaking the tray halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chickpeas should be golden and crispy when done.

  6. Serve and enjoy : Garnish with cilantro and serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, tangy twist. Serve them warm or at room temperature.

Why Masala Roasted Chickpeas Are Perfect for Diwali

1. Healthy and Delicious

This recipe is a healthy alternative to traditional fried snacks. Chickpeas are high in protein and fiber , keeping you full and satisfied. They’re also naturally gluten-free, making this a versatile dish for any diet.


2. Packed with Indian Flavors

The spices— cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika —are typical of Indian cuisine and add incredible flavor without overpowering the dish. These spices are also known for their health benefits, from supporting digestion to reducing inflammation.


3. Simple for Non-Indian Cooks

Even if you’re new to Indian cooking, this recipe is easy to follow, and the ingredients are likely already in your pantry. The result is a snack that feels festive and flavorful but doesn’t require complicated cooking techniques.

How to Serve: Incorporating Ahimsa Smart Snacking Bowls

One of the joys of Diwali is gathering around the table with family and sharing special meals. In our home, we serve snacks like these Masala Roasted Chickpeas in  Ahimsa Smart Snacking Bowls  . These stainless steel bowls are not only sustainable but also beautiful, with vibrant jewel tones inspired by the hues of India that not only elevate the presentation but also reflect the values of sustainability and non-toxicity that align with the spirit of Diwali.


When serving your Diwali snacks in Ahimsa bowls , you’re not just presenting your food in something durable and elegant—you’re embracing a sustainable and non-toxic lifestyle that aligns with the values of Ahimsa . Plus, the bowls are perfect for small hands, making them ideal for kids who are excited to get in on the snacking action.

Masala Roasted Chickpeas: A Healthy Diwali Snack for Families

Healthy Ingredients and the Spirit of Diwali

As a pediatrician and a mom, I care deeply about what my family eats, especially during the holidays. This recipe uses healthy ingredients that are good for both the body and the soul:


  • Chickpeas : These legumes are rich in plant-based protein, making them a great meat-free snack option. They’re also loaded with fiber, helping with digestion and keeping you full longer.

  • Turmeric : Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric is one of the healthiest spices you can incorporate into your meals.

  • Olive oil : A healthier fat alternative to frying, olive oil helps roast the chickpeas to a perfect crisp while adding heart-healthy fats.

When served in Ahimsa’s non-toxic bowls, these snacks become part of a meaningful celebration—one that reflects the values of sustainability and health, aligned with the spirit of Diwali.

Celebrating Diwali with Tradition and Health in Mind

Diwali is a time to celebrate light, kindness, and new beginnings. For me, it’s also a time to honor my roots while ensuring that my family enjoys healthy, nutritious food . Whether you’re new to Diwali or celebrating it with your family every year, I encourage you to try this simple, savory snack and incorporate a bit of Indian tradition into your home.


And as you enjoy your Diwali snacks, consider serving them in Ahimsa Smart Snacking Bowls —a beautiful, sustainable way to bring a piece of Indian culture to your dining table. It’s about more than just the food—it’s about making mindful, compassionate choices that reflect the spirit of Diwali.

Final Thoughts: A Savory, Healthy Diwali Snack You’ll Love

This Diwali, take the opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds—delicious, nutritious snacks that reflect the traditions of the festival while keeping health and sustainability at the forefront. These Masala Roasted Chickpeas are the perfect snack to bring people together and can be beautifully served in Ahimsa Smart Snacking Bowls for a touch of tradition with a modern twist.

Ready to bring Ahimsa into your home this Diwali? Explore our collection of Ahimsa Smart Snacking Bowls and other stainless steel dinnerware, and subscribe to my newsletter for more healthy recipes and family-friendly tips!

Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

Dr. Manasa Mantravadi is a board-certified pediatrician whose dedication to children’s health drove her to launch Ahimsa, the world's first colorful stainless steel dishes for kids. She was motivated by the American Academy of Pediatrics’ findings on harmful chemicals in plastic affecting children's well-being. Ahimsa has gained widespread recognition and been featured in media outlets such as Parents Magazine, the Today Show, The Oprah Magazine, and more.

Dr. Mantravadi received the esteemed “Physician Mentor of the Year” award at Indiana University School of Medicine in 2019. She was also named a Forbes Next 1000 Entrepreneur in 2021, with her inspiring story showcased on Good Morning America. She serves on the Council for Environmental Health and Climate Change and the Council for School Health at The American Academy of Pediatrics. She represents Ahimsa as a U.S. industry stakeholder on the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) for the Global Plastics Treaty, led by the United Nations Environment Program. Dr. Mantravadi leads Ahimsa's social impact program, The Conscious Cafeteria Project, to reduce carbon emissions and safeguard student health as part of a national pilot of the Clinton Global Initiative.

She is dedicated to educating and empowering people to make healthier, more environmentally friendly choices at mealtime. Her mission remains to advocate for the health of all children and the one planet we will leave behind for them through real policy change within our food system.

Snacktime Essentials

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use stainless steel instead of plastic? Is stainless steel better for health?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released a report in July 2018 suggesting ways that families can limit exposure to certain chemicals at mealtime, including “the use of alternatives to plastic, such as glass or stainless steel, when possible.” The report explained that “…some additives are put directly in foods, while “indirect” additives may include chemicals from plastic, glues, dyes, paper, cardboard”. Further, “Children are more sensitive to chemical exposures because they eat and drink more, relative to body weight, than adults do, and are still growing and developing.” While stainless steel items meet the recommendation to avoid plastic products in children, Ahimsa® products have the obvious advantage of not breaking like glass.

Is stainless steel better for the environment than plastic?

According to the Steel Recycling Institute, steel can be recycled over and over and over again without losing its integrity and requires less energy to recycle than to make anew. Most plastic unfortunately ends up in landfills and it is estimated to take 700 years to decompose. Our special coloring process that allows Ahimsa® products to be fully metal is environmentally friendly, so it does not produce toxic run-off into the ecosystem.

Will Ahimsa products break or peel?

No. Our steel is durable, so it won’t break or shatter with everyday use, like glass. And it won’t peel, like other colored stainless steel products you’ve seen. We use a special process that allows the colors to naturally occur in the metal.

Which Ahimsa products are best for my little one(s)?

Our products are meant to last, you can use Ahimsa at ages 1, 8 and 18! We thoughtfully design our products to be safe for little ones and our planet while reducing consumption. Once your child outgrows the Starting Solids Set  and can use regular cups and utensils, the training cup is the perfect size rinse cup in the bathroom, the infant spoon doubles as a tea stirrer and the bowl is great for snacks or as an additional compartment to our modular divided plate. Our plates are great for any age as they encourage choosing a variety of healthy foods at each meal and help visualize portion sizes easily. It’s the lasting beauty of stainless steel - grows with your child and reduces waste.

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