This Easy Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is a dish that will make your taste buds sing! It’s packed with fluffy chickpeas, garlic, and fresh herbs for a delightful flavor.
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up! I often serve it over rice or pasta, and trust me, it pairs well with everything—your dinner guests will love it! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. If you’re out, avocado oil or vegetable oil works as a good substitute.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. You can use shallots or even green onions if needed, but chop them finely for even cooking.
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are convenient, but you can use dried ones. Just soak and cook them ahead of time! They’ll add a little more texture and flavor.
Heavy Cream: This makes the dish creamy and rich. If you’re looking to make it lighter, use half-and-half or coconut cream for a vegan option. I find coconut cream adds a nice tropical twist!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great, but you can also use kale or even frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well.
How Do You Make Sure The Chickpeas Are Flavorful?
To really maximize flavor, it’s essential to sauté the onions and garlic well. Start on medium heat to soften them before adding spices. Here’s a quick guide:
- Cook onions until light golden, adding garlic just before the onions are fully sautéed. This prevents burning.
- Incorporate your spices—oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes—so they toast slightly. This enhances their flavor!
- Let the chickpeas simmer briefly with the tomatoes before adding cream. This helps them soak up the flavors.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that every spoonful tastes amazing! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 😊
Easy Marry Me Chickpeas Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped (or 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for dairy-free)
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, for a total of around 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create the base for all those tasty flavors you’ll be adding!
2. Sauté the Onion:
Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly soft, giving it a nice flavor boost.
3. Add Garlic and Spices:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Mix in Chickpeas and Tomatoes:
Add the drained chickpeas and chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
5. Pour in the Cream:
Now, pour in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Let it gently simmer for about 5 minutes, which thickens the sauce and enhances the flavors.
6. Add Spinach:
Time to add the fresh spinach! Stir it in and cook until it wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. The spinach adds color and nutrition!
7. Add Cheese:
If you’re using grated Parmesan cheese, add it now and stir until it melts and combines with the sauce. This creates a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible!
8. Season to Taste:
Finally, season your dish with salt and black pepper according to your preferences. Taste it to make sure the flavors are just right.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your Marry Me Chickpeas with fresh parsley or cilantro for a little pop of color before serving. It looks lovely!
10. Enjoy:
Serve this delightful dish warm, ideally over rice, pasta, or with some crusty bread. Enjoy every bite of this creamy, flavorful, and comforting meal!
Happy cooking! 🎉
FAQ for Easy Marry Me Chickpeas
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it first and drain off any excess water. Stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking just until heated through for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream. Omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a vegan cheese alternative for that cheesy flavor!
What Can I Serve With Marry Me Chickpeas?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even crusty bread. You can also serve it over quinoa or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option. Enjoy! 🌱
