I am a firm believer that diets are nonsense.

Depriving ourselves is not only a surefire way to make sure we start craving that very thing we are avoiding, but also – should how we eat not be more about what goodness we can add to our diets – rather than what we need to take away? In my opinion – absolutely – in every way. Which is why I was so thrilled to have come across this absolutely delicious recipe for chocolate-covered chickpeas. Yep – that is right. Good, old chickpeas. Covered in chocolate. The 'recipe' is pretty much in the name – these are just roasted chickpeas covered in chocolate and shaped into little clusters – which are easy to nibble on when you feel peckish or just in need of something sweet. This recipe does not call for it, but I always like to add a little bit of coconut oil to the chocolate when I melt it – as it prevents the chocolate from drying out while melting, and also fixes any overheating mistake. Oh, and if you really want to take things up a notch, add a pinch of Himalaya salt or sea salt to the clusters – because YUM.

Make it vegan

The chocolate-covered chickpeas can easily be made vegan by swapping regular chocolate for your favourite vegan version – and they will still taste just as delicious. Chickpeas are high in protein, so not only are these the perfect snack for when you want something sweet, they will also help keep you full and keep your blood sugar more stable. All in all, a win-win as far as snacks are concerned if you ask us. Oh – and did you know – raw cacao powder is a real superfood  – and chock-a-block with antioxidants – so literally, you are not depriving yourself in the slightest by swapping to these as a snack option – you are literally adding more yummy goodness to your body – yay!