This Easy Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is quick and full of flavor! With tasty spices and creamy chickpeas, it’s the perfect dish for busy nights or when you need a hug in a bowl.
Plus, who wouldn’t want a meal that has “marry me” in its name? It’s that good! 😄 I love serving it over rice or with some crusty bread for a cozy dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: The star of this dish! You can use canned chickpeas for convenience or cook dried ones if you prefer. If you’re looking for a heartier option, white beans or lentils can work too!
Coconut Milk: This adds a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, coconut milk is great. For something richer, heavy cream works well too. You can even use vegetable broth for a lighter sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They bring a burst of flavor. If you can’t find sun-dried tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes (just cook them longer until soft) or roasted red peppers for a different twist.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully in the sauce. If you don’t have spinach, kale is a great alternative! Frozen spinach is handy too, just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
How Can I Ensure My Chickpeas are Flavorful?
To make your chickpeas pop with flavor, focus on your seasoning steps! Start by sautéing onions and garlic to build a rich base. Don’t rush the cooking; let the spices bloom! Once you add chickpeas, coat them evenly in the spices and let them absorb that deliciousness for a couple of minutes before adding your liquids.
- Ensure your skillet is hot enough to sauté the onions and garlic, but not so hot that they burn.
- Stir gently and often to keep everything moving and to avoid any sticking.
- Let everything simmer together; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated! By paying attention to these little details, you’ll create a comforting meal everyone will love on those busy nights. Enjoy!
Easy Marry Me Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Crusty bread or cooked rice, for serving
Time Needed:
This easy meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so in just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, creamy dish ready to enjoy. Perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This adds a wonderful flavor base to your dish!
2. Add the Garlic and Spices:
Next, add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, and ground cumin to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring often, until you smell the lovely aroma. Just be careful not to let the garlic burn!
3. Incorporate the Chickpeas and Tomatoes:
Stir in the drained chickpeas and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Mix everything well and let it cook for about 2 minutes. This will help them soak in all that flavor you just created!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in your choice of coconut milk or heavy cream. Stir it all together, and then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken slightly for about 5 minutes.
5. Add the Spinach:
Once the sauce has thickened, add the chopped spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and is evenly mixed in. This step adds a lovely touch of green and healthy goodness!
6. Final Seasoning:
Give the dish a taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Allow it to simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, making sure it’s all heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you want to, sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a little burst of color and flavor. Serve your Marry Me Chickpeas warm over rice or with some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This comforting and quick chickpea dish is bound to be a hit on your busy nights!
FAQ for Easy Marry Me Chickpeas
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach is a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish to avoid excess moisture. Stir it in at the end until heated through!
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you prefer not to use coconut milk, you can substitute it with heavy cream for a richer flavor or with vegetable broth for a lighter option. For a dairy-free alternative, almond or oat milk also works, but the consistency will be thinner, so you may want to add a bit of cornstarch to thicken it.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring that they are tender before adding in the chickpeas and sauce.
