Chickpeas

Chickpeas have a nutty flavor when added to salads, soups and casseroles. Although canned chickpeas make a convenient pantry item, dried beans take up less space and can be ground into flour for use in baking or to make Middle Eastern dishes such as falafel and hummus. If your grocer carries only canned chickpeas, make your own dried beans using a food dehydrator or your oven.