Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul? Dive into the vibrant world of Indian cuisine with our delightful "Curried Chickpeas with Spinach and Tomatoes." This quick and easy recipe not only boasts an incredible flavor profile but also packs a nutritious punch, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s both hearty and healthy, leaving your guests asking for seconds. Get ready to impress with a meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Sprinkle curry powder over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat evenly and allow the spices to bloom and become fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
- Pour in the drained and rinsed chickpeas, stirring to combine with the spiced onion mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow chickpeas to warm through and absorb the flavors.
- Add the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, stirring to incorporate with the chickpeas. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 7-8 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Gently fold in fresh spinach leaves, cooking until they wilt and become tender, about 2-3 minutes. The spinach will reduce significantly in volume.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting spices as needed. Stir to ensure even distribution of seasoning.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. Serve hot as a main dish or side, optionally accompanied by rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions and mince your garlic in advance. You can even rinse and drain the chickpeas the night before for a quicker cooking process.
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped green chili when sautéing the onions. Adjust the curry powder to your taste for a milder or spicier dish.
- Fresh Spinach Alternative: If fresh spinach isn't available, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. You can also top it with a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they make for a great lunch the next day! Just reheat and enjoy, or toss them into a salad for an extra boost of protein.
- Garnish for Flavor: Enhance your dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for a refreshing twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
