Name: Curried Chickpeas With Spinach
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp olive oil; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch fresh ginger, grated; 1½ Tbsp curry powder; 8 oz spinach (fresh or frozen); 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a vibrant, nutritious vegetarian meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Creamy tomato sauce, aromatic spices, fresh spinach, and hearty chickpeas come together quickly for a satisfying weeknight dinner—ideal served over rice or with crusty bread.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 Tbsp olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch fresh ginger, grated
1½ Tbsp curry powder
8 oz spinach (fresh or frozen)
1 15 oz can tomato sauce
2 15 oz cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed

Directions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onions soften, about 3–5 minutes.
Stir in the curry powder and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
If using fresh spinach, add about ¼ cup of water to the skillet along with the spinach and continue cooking until the spinach wilts. (If using frozen spinach, no water is needed.)
Stir in the drained chickpeas and tomato sauce. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices through the sauce. Heat through for about 5 minutes.
Serve immediately over rice or with bread, and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes

Variations

Protein boost: Stir in crumbled paneer, tofu cubes, or shredded chicken.
Creamier texture: Add a splash of coconut milk or Greek yogurt at the end for richness.
Extra heat: Include chili flakes or fresh sliced chili when sautéing.
Veggie additions: Toss in bell peppers, peas, or cauliflower florets.
Flavor twist: Finish with a squeeze of lemon or sprinkle of garam masala for added brightness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium‑low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Freezing: This dish freezes well—store in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat, stirring gently to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I Use Spinach Only, Not Garlic And Ginger?

Yes—while garlic and ginger add depth, the recipe still works well without them or with garlic powder as a substitute.

Do I Need To Pre-Cook The Chickpeas?

No—using drained canned chickpeas works perfectly; cooking them again in the sauce softens them and absorbs the flavors.

Is This Dish Vegan?

Yes—this recipe is fully vegan if you choose plant-based sides like rice or flatbread.

Can I Make It Milder Or Spicier?

Yes—reduce the curry powder for a milder version, or add fresh chili or cayenne to increase heat.

What Rice Pairs Best With It?

Basmati rice works beautifully, but jasmine or brown rice are also excellent choices.

Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?

Absolutely—just omit the added water and stir the frozen spinach in until heated through.

What If I Don’t Have Tomato Sauce?

You can substitute crushed tomatoes or tomato puree—adjust thickness by adding a bit of water.

Can I Double The Recipe?

Yes—just use a larger pan and adjust cooking time slightly to heat the doubled ingredients evenly.

Does It Taste Better The Next Day?

Yes—the flavors develop and intensify when allowed to rest overnight in the fridge.

Can I Serve It With Naan?

Definitely—warm naan, chapati, or flatbread makes excellent dippers for this saucy dish.

Conclusion

Curried Chickpeas with Spinach is a quick, wholesome, and flavor-packed meal that delivers rich spices, comforting textures, and vibrant colors—all on the table in under 30 minutes. Whether enjoyed weeknight or weekend, it’s nutritious, easy, and endlessly adaptable to your preference.