This Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is a cozy meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s a warm blend of chickpeas, spices, and lots of love, all in one pot!
You might just fall in love with this dish—just like its name hints! 😄 I like to serve it over rice, making it a perfect weeknight treat that’s quick and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: The star of the dish! Canned chickpeas are super convenient. If you’re looking to use dried ones, soak about 1 cup overnight and cook until tender.
Onion: A small onion adds a lovely base flavor. If you’re out, shallots or even green onions work in a pinch. Just adjust the quantities as needed!
Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream: I love coconut milk for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness. If you’re dairy-free, stick with coconut milk. You can also use cashew cream for a nutty flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These give a burst of flavor! If you don’t have them, try using diced fresh tomatoes, though the flavor will be milder.
Spinach: Feel free to swap in other leafy greens like kale or swiss chard for a different taste and texture. Just ensure they cook down nicely!
How Do I Cook the Chickpeas Perfectly?
Cooking the chickpeas the right way is important for achieving flavor and texture. Here’s how to integrate them seamlessly into the dish:
- Rinse the canned chickpeas to remove excess salt and improve flavor.
- For a deeper flavor, sauté them briefly with the onions and spices. This helps them absorb the flavors better!
Keep an eye on how long they cook once added to the sauce. You want them warm and nicely coated but not mushy!
Marry Me Chickpeas – Easy, Flavorful Dinner
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust for heat)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Cooked rice or crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and only 15 minutes to cook, making it ready in about 25 minutes total! Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will create a beautiful flavor base for your dish!
2. Add Garlic and Spices:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and red chili flakes. Cook this mixture for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma and enhance the dish!
3. Combine with Chickpeas and Tomatoes:
Now, it’s time to add the chickpeas and sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld nicely.
4. Pour in the Creaminess:
Pour in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) and mix everything evenly. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop a creamy texture.
5. Add the Fresh Greens:
Fold in the chopped spinach and cook just until it wilts down, which should only take about 2 minutes. This will add a nice pop of color to your dish!
6. Final Touches:
Stir in your choice of fresh parsley or cilantro, then season with salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor profiles.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and serve your chickpea mixture warm, over a bed of cooked rice or with slices of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!
This recipe produces a creamy, richly spiced chickpea dinner with vibrant bites of sun-dried tomato and fresh greens – all ready in no time. A wonderful meal that is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor!
Can I Substitute Other Beans for Chickpeas?
Yes! While chickpeas are perfect for this dish, you can use white beans like cannellini beans or navy beans instead. They will provide a similar creamy texture and absorb the flavors well.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like more heat, consider increasing the amount of red chili flakes or adding fresh chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also drizzle a bit of sriracha or hot sauce on top when serving for an extra kick!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
Absolutely! You can use about 1-2 fresh tomatoes, diced, in place of sun-dried tomatoes. Just keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may impart a milder flavor compared to the concentrated taste of sun-dried tomatoes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you reheat, add a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce as it may thicken in the fridge.
