This Easy Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is a delightful dish that’s creamy and packed with flavor! Made with chickpeas, spices, and a splash of cream, it’s a fantastic option for lunch or dinner.
I love how quick this recipe comes together—just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer. It’s a perfect meal to share when you want to impress someone special, or just treat yourself! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: The star of this dish! Canned chickpeas make it easy, but you can also use dried chickpeas; just soak and cook them beforehand. They provide protein and creamy texture.
Sun-dried tomatoes: They add a tangy punch. If you can’t find them, roasted red peppers can be a tasty alternative, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds brightness and nutrition. If you don’t have fresh, frozen spinach works too—just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Cream: I love using heavy cream for richness, but coconut cream is a great dairy-free option. For a lighter choice, you could use plain yogurt, but it may change the texture a bit.
How Do I Ensure the Chickpeas Are Creamy and Delicious?
The key to creamy chickpeas lies in how you cook them. Sautéing the garlic and onions first builds a flavorful base. Make sure to stir the chickpeas well with the spices before adding the liquid—this helps them absorb all those yummy flavors!
- Cook the garlic and onion until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Thoroughly coat the chickpeas with spices. This step makes a big difference.
- Use low heat for the cream and spinach—this prevents curdling and keeps the sauce nice and smooth.
Don’t rush the simmering steps; letting everything come together enhances the taste! Enjoy! 😊
Easy Marry Me Chickpeas Recipe – Creamy and Flavorful
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes for preparation and cooking. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This will be the base for our delicious flavors!
2. Sauté Garlic and Onion:
Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step builds a wonderful foundation of flavor.
3. Add Chickpeas and Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the drained chickpeas and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 2 minutes so everything gets nice and warm. The tomatoes add a lovely tang!
4. Spice it Up:
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, red chili flakes (if you like some heat), salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chickpeas and tomatoes evenly with the spices. This is where the magic happens!
5. Pour in the Broth:
Now, add the vegetable broth and let everything simmer for about 3-4 minutes. This helps the flavors blend perfectly together!
6. Add Cream and Spinach:
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens up a bit. It’s going to smell amazing!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This is your chance to make it just right!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve warm and enjoy with crusty bread, rice, or your favorite side dishes. Your creamy, flavorful Marry Me Chickpeas are ready!
Enjoy this comforting dish that’s not only quick to prepare but is sure to delight anyone you share it with! 😊
FAQ – Easy Marry Me Chickpeas Recipe
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can use dried chickpeas! Just make sure to soak and cook them beforehand according to package instructions. This will add some time but gives you that fresh taste!
Is There a Good Substitute for Heavy Cream?
Coconut cream is a fantastic dairy-free alternative! You can also use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and sour cream for a lighter option, but be aware that this will change the flavor slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Serve With Marry Me Chickpeas?
This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, rice, or quinoa. You can also serve it over pasta or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal!
