This Easy Marry Me Chickpeas dish is packed with flavor and perfect for a quick, tasty meal! With a mix of spices, garlic, and creamy chickpeas, it hits the spot every time.
Honestly, I love how simple it is to whip up! Just sauté everything together, and you have a delicious dish that might even win someone’s heart! ❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These are the star of the dish! They give a nice texture and are packed with protein. If you don’t have canned chickpeas, you can use dried ones—just soak and cook them beforehand.
Coconut milk: I love using coconut milk for its creaminess and flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, it’s perfect. You can substitute with heavy cream if you’re okay with dairy, but this will change the flavor a bit.
Smoked paprika: This adds a lovely smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will work too. If you want some heat, you can add a little more chili flakes instead!
Fresh spinach: Using fresh spinach is great for added nutrition and color. You can easily replace it with kale or even frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it first!
How Do I Properly Sauté Vegetables?
Sautéing vegetables correctly helps build layers of flavor. Start with a hot skillet and enough fat (like olive oil) to coat the bottom. Here’s how:
- Heat olive oil over medium heat. You can tell it’s ready when it shimmers slightly.
- Add onions and garlic first. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, around 3-4 minutes.
- Then, add denser vegetables like bell peppers. Cook them until they soften, about 3-4 minutes more. This develops a rich base for your dish.
Be patient and don’t rush; good sautéing brings out the best flavors!
Easy Marry Me Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Marry Me Chickpeas recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 25 minutes. Perfect for those cozy weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté these together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent—this will give you a flavorful base for your dish!
2. Add the Bell Pepper:
Next, toss in the sliced red bell pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until it gets softened. The color and sweetness of the bell pepper will add extra flavor and nutrition!
3. Spice It Up:
Now, it’s time to add some zest! Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Let this cook for 1 minute, which allows the spices to warm up and release their magical aroma!
4. Mix in the Tomato Paste:
Add the tomato paste to the skillet and stir it well to combine it with the vegetables, enhancing the flavor profile of your dish.
5. Create the Creamy Base:
Pour in the coconut milk or heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. This step is where your dish gets creamy and delicious!
6. Add the Chickpeas:
Stir in the chickpeas, making sure they get coated with the creamy sauce. Let everything cook together for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Incorporate Spinach:
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts down, about 2 minutes. This adds a pop of green and nutrition!
8. Final Touches:
Finish your dish by adding the lemon juice and chopped cilantro or parsley (if using). Stir everything well and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve this warm with crusty bread, rice, or your favorite side for a truly satisfying meal. Enjoy the creamy, delightful combination that’s sure to impress!
This comforting chickpeas dish blends wonderful flavors and is an easy recipe to fall in love with—both making it and enjoying every bite! 🌱❤️
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried Chickpeas?
Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are convenient and ready to use. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to your dish to reduce sodium and improve taste.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you prefer not to use coconut milk, you can substitute it with heavy cream or milk for a creamier texture. For a dairy-free option, almond milk or oat milk will work, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like zucchini, kale, or cherry tomatoes. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure everything is tender and cooked through.
