This Easy Marry Me Chickpeas dish is packed with flavor and super simple to make! With chickpeas, garlic, and tomatoes, it’s a perfect mix for a cozy meal.
And let’s face it, who wouldn’t want a dish that could make someone propose? 😄 I love serving it with rice for a hearty bite that’s just so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These little legumes are the star of the dish! If you’re short on canned chickpeas, feel free to use dried ones. Just soak and cook them ahead of time. You can substitute with lentils if you prefer a quicker-cooking option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a punch of flavor. If you don’t have them, chopped fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers can work well. Just keep the cooking time in mind, as fresh tomatoes will need more time to break down.
Coconut Milk: This adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness. Heavy cream is a fine alternative if you’re not dairy-free. For a lighter option, try unsweetened almond or cashew milk instead.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great for its nutrition and color. You can also use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding. Kale is another good substitute; just chop it smaller and cook it slightly longer.
How Do I Ensure My Chickpeas are Full of Flavor?
The key to making flavorful chickpeas lies in the seasoning and cooking techniques. Sautéing the onion until soft brings out its natural sweetness and enhances the dish’s base flavor. Don’t rush this step!
- For added depth, let the spices cook a bit longer after adding garlic. This helps unlock their flavors.
- When you add chickpeas, let them warm up and soak in the spices for a few minutes before adding the liquid. This allows them to absorb more flavor.
- Simmering the mixture helps combine all the ingredients into a tasty sauce. Keep an eye on the thickness; you want it creamy, not runny.
Easy Marry Me Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent—this is where the flavor begins!
2. Add Garlic and Spices:
Now, add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes. You’ll love the aroma as the spices release their flavors!
3. Cook the Chickpeas:
Next, toss in the rinsed chickpeas and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix well and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. This will help the chickpeas warm up and soak in all those delicious spices.
4. Create the Creamy Base:
Pour in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) along with the vegetable broth. Stir until everything combines nicely. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer as it starts to bubble slightly.
5. Add Spinach:
Time to add some greens! Stir in the chopped spinach and let it cook until wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The spinach adds color and nutrition to the dish.
6. Final Seasoning:
Taste your dish and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Finish and Serve:
Remove your skillet from heat and sprinkle with some fresh parsley or cilantro if you’d like. Serve your Easy Marry Me Chickpeas warm with your choice of rice, crusty bread, or any side you enjoy!
This creamy, spiced chickpea dish is quick to make, full of comforting flavors, and sure to delight you and anyone you share it with!
FAQ for Easy Marry Me Chickpeas
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can! If you prefer using dried chickpeas, be sure to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the recipe. This will enhance their flavor and texture!
What Can I Use Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can substitute with diced fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers. Just note that fresh tomatoes may require a bit longer to cook down and become soft.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! To keep the dish vegan, use coconut milk (as suggested) instead of heavy cream. This will keep it creamy and delicious without any dairy products.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce when reheating.
