Chickpeas are a traditional treat to serve at a Shalom Zachor, a sweet little party given in honor of the birth of a baby boy, held the first Friday night after the birth, with or without the guest of honor. Sumac, a Middle Eastern spice unrelated to the poisonous plant, offers an herbal piquancy to chickpeas, that is lemony, too. Just beware when you serve these humble legumes: everyone is going to ask you about the identity of that elusive rosy spice.

Roasted Chickpeas with Sumac

Ingredients:

• 2 (15-oz.) cans chickpeas, drained well, patted dry
• 1 tablespoon sumac
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Chopped flat-leaf parsley, for garnish

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the sumac, smoked paprika, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
2. Toss the chickpeas with the spice mixture and the oil. Spread chickpeas into a single layer onto a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. Increase the temperature to 450°F and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
3. Sprinkle chickpeas with chopped parsley and serve.