Spicy Chickpeas with Garlic Spinach

Name: Spicy Chickpeas with Garlic Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach, washed; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

I love making spicy chickpeas with garlic spinach because it’s not only healthy but also incredibly flavorful. This dish combines protein-packed chickpeas with vibrant, garlicky spinach, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. With just a few pantry staples, I can whip this up in under 30 minutes. Whether I’m looking for a quick weeknight meal or a tasty side dish, this recipe always delivers. Plus, the spices add a delightful kick that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:37:08.518Z

When I first tried spicy chickpeas with garlic spinach, I was looking for a quick yet nutritious meal that packed a flavor punch. I sautéed the chickpeas with cumin and chili flakes for a spicy kick, then added fresh spinach to the mix. The result was vibrant and satisfying! I discovered that adding a squeeze of lemon at the end brightened the flavors even more, making this dish a regular on my menu.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it over rice, toss it in a salad, or enjoy it on its own. Each time I make it, I experiment with different spices or greens, which keeps the dish exciting. I've found that cooking the spinach just until wilted preserves its nutrients and gives a lovely texture alongside the chickpeas.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to make in just 30 minutes
Packed with plant-based protein and nutrients
Spicy and flavorful, perfect for heat lovers
Versatile enough to pair with your favorite grains or salads

Key Cooking Techniques

When preparing the chickpeas, make sure to cook them over medium heat to ensure they become slightly crispy without burning. You want to hear a gentle sizzle without overwhelming the spices. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and to allow even cooking. The goal is to heat them through and create a nice texture while letting the spices coat each chickpea evenly for maximum flavor.

For the spinach, use a wide pan to allow the garlic to spread out and sauté evenly. This prevents burning and ensures that every bit of garlic releases its flavor into the oil. As the spinach wilts, it should change from a vibrant green to a more subdued shade, indicating that it’s done. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so aim for 2-3 minutes of sautéing until just wilted.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Chickpeas are the star of this dish, providing not only protein but also a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender spinach. If you prefer a different legume or need a gluten-free option, white beans or lentils can also be used, but adjust cooking times to ensure they are heated through properly.

The spices used in the chickpeas play a crucial role; cumin provides earthiness while chili flakes add heat. If you’re looking for a milder version, reduce the chili flakes or substitute with smoked paprika for a different flavor twist. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be added before serving for a fresh finish, elevating the dish further.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish.

For the Chickpeas

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spinach

2 cups fresh spinach, washed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon

Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your spicy chickpeas with garlic spinach.

Cook the Chickpeas

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chickpeas, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chickpeas are heated through and slightly crispy.

Sauté the Spinach

In another pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the spinach and stir until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Combine the sautéed spinach with the chickpeas, squeezing fresh lemon juice over the top. Serve warm, either on its own or over your choice of grains.

Enjoy your flavorful and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or serve with a dollop of yogurt on top.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish is great for meal prep! You can cook the chickpeas and spinach ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, sprinkling a little extra lemon juice to freshen the flavors.

If you're looking to freeze this dish, I recommend freezing the chickpeas and spinach separately to maintain texture. The spinach tends to become mushy once thawed, but cooked chickpeas freeze really well. Store them in portion-sized bags for quick weeknight meals.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your spicy chickpeas and garlic spinach over quinoa, brown rice, or couscous. These grains complement the flavors and provide additional nutrients and fiber. If you prefer a lighter option, enjoy them in a wrap with some avocado and sliced tomatoes or over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad.

If you're feeling adventurous, top this dish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese to add creaminess and tang. Adding chopped nuts or seeds can provide a satisfying crunch and additional nutrition, enhancing the dish further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas?

Yes, but they need to be soaked overnight and cooked before using them in this recipe.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or kale would be great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this dish is completely vegan and gluten-free!