Quick Easy Protein Snack

So many times when my two year old is asking for a snack I hand him a muffin, a cracker, a piece of toast, or fruit something quick that doesn't require cutting. Carbs, carbs, carbs. Not that I really think he needs to be doing South Beach, but it's easy for him to fill up on that and not have room for meat, eggs, or beans.
Today I discovered a great easy snack for him that also uses up leftovers. I can't find canned chickpeas here so I have to soak and boil them. When I do, I usually make a big batch and make hummus, soup, falafel, salad, etc. But often I have a 1/2 cup or so left over.
I found that you can saute the cooked beans in a little olive oil over medium heat for 5-6 minutes and they get toasty, crisp and nutty on the outside and creamy inside. Drain them on a paper towel and season with salt and pepper for a crunchy snack. I think they'd make a great substitute for a crouton in a soup or salad too.