This Easy Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is a fun, tasty dish that’s perfect for any meal! Made with simple ingredients like chickpeas, garlic, and spices, it brings a warm, comforting vibe.
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up. Perfect for busy days when you need something yummy and satisfying. Trust me, it’s so good, it might even win over your loved ones! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are convenient. If you have dried chickpeas, soak and cook them beforehand for a fresher taste. This dish works great as a vegetarian protein source!
Coconut Milk: I love using coconut milk for creaminess, but you can swap it with heavy cream or even almond milk for a lighter version. Just remember it may slightly change the flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. Feel free to use kale or Swiss chard if you prefer, or even frozen spinach if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw it first!
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even cayenne pepper can add a different, but still delicious, kick. Just adjust the quantity to your taste!
How Can I Maximize Flavor in This Recipe?
The key to deeply flavored chickpeas is taking time to enhance your aromatics. Start with sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant; this builds the foundation for a rich taste.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the garlic and onions.
- Add the spices after the aromatics—this boosts their flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer the simmer, the better the taste!
And don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper at the end. Tasting as you go ensures you hit that perfect flavor balance!
Easy Marry Me Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take approximately 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner while still being comforting and filling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, it’s time to add in our aromatics!
2. Sauté Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This is where all the flavors begin to develop!
3. Add Spices:
Stir in the smoked paprika and red chili flakes, cooking them for another 30 seconds. This helps to release their flavors, making your dish even more aromatic!
4. Incorporate Chickpeas:
Add the rinsed chickpeas to the pan, stirring well to coat them with the spices. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
5. Pour in The Liquids:
Now it’s time to add the coconut milk and vegetable broth (or water). Stir everything together until well combined.
6. Let it Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 8-10 minutes. This will thicken the sauce slightly—yummy!
7. Add Greens and Tomatoes:
Mix in the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is warmed through, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
8. Season and Serve:
Finally, taste and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
9. Serve:
Dish it up warm with some crusty bread on the side to soak up that creamy, spicy sauce. Enjoy your delicious Easy Marry Me Chickpeas!
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried Ones?
Absolutely! Canned chickpeas save time and are just as nutritious. Just be sure to rinse and drain them before using to remove excess sodium.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Just chop them and add them in with the onions to give them time to soften during cooking.
Is This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as long as you use coconut milk. If you opt for heavy cream, it will no longer be vegan. Otherwise, enjoy this delicious plant-based meal!
