Save A hearty, one-pan dish featuring protein-rich chickpeas and fresh spinach, simmered with aromatic spices and tomatoes for a quick, nourishing, and affordable meal.
This skillet came together on busy weeknights when I needed something satisfying without much fuss. The blend of Mediterranean spices and the freshness of spinach always reminds me of comforting home-cooked meals shared with friends.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp, for sautéing vegetables
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves: 3, minced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Chickpeas: 2 cans (15 oz/400 g each), drained and rinsed
- Fresh spinach: 5 oz (140 g), roughly chopped
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz/400 g)
- Carrot: 1 medium, grated (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Ground coriander: 1/2 tsp
- Chili flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste
- Lemon juice: Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: 2 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add aromatics:
- Add garlic and red bell pepper. Cook 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Spice it up:
- Stir in cumin, paprika, coriander, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine main ingredients:
- Add chickpeas, grated carrot (if using), and diced tomatoes with juices. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer:
- Simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes allowing flavors to meld and mixture to thicken.
- Add spinach:
- Add chopped spinach and cook, stirring, until just wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Finish and serve:
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Remove from heat and sprinkle with parsley or cilantro. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or quinoa if desired.
Save My family loves gathering around the kitchen table for this meal. It's the kind of dish that disappears fast and always brings smiles.
Required Tools
Large skillet or sauté pan, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife, chopping board, can opener
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 280, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 41 g, Protein 11 g
Serving Suggestions
Pairs well with crusty bread, rice, quinoa, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, or mint tea
Save This skillet is a go-to for busy nights and tastes even better the next day. Enjoy its bright flavors and wholesome ingredients!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute spinach with another green?
Absolutely. Kale or Swiss chard can be used as alternatives and will complement the spices well.
- → How can I add creaminess to this dish?
Stirring in tahini or coconut milk before serving adds a creamy texture without overpowering the spices.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Yes, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to elevate the heat.
- → What sides pair well with this skillet?
Crusty bread, rice, or quinoa are excellent accompaniments to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors often deepen after resting. Store in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving.