Oh my goodness, do I have the most delightful recipe to share with you today! I’m talking about my beloved Marry Me Chickpeas—a dish that has truly stolen hearts (well, at least the hearts of my friends and family). I can vividly remember the first time I made these little gems; it was a cozy autumn evening, and the aroma wafting through my kitchen had my partner begging for a taste long before it was done.
What I absolutely adore about this dish is not only how creamy and flavorful it is but also how incredibly easy it is to whip up! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special to impress guests, these chickpeas fit the bill perfectly. Plus, they’re vegetarian, packed with nutrients, and undeniably comforting. So, without further ado, let’s get cooking!
What’s in Marry Me Chickpeas?
Chickpeas: The stars of this dish! These little legumes are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them super filling and nutritious. I love using canned chickpeas for convenience, but you can always cook dried ones if you’re feeling ambitious!
Olive Oil: This is what we’ll use to sauté our aromatics. A good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely flavor here.
Garlic: Because what dish isn’t better with garlic? It adds that amazing depth of flavor that makes everything taste a little more gourmet.
Onion: A finely chopped onion is essential for umami and sweetness in this dish. It brings everything together beautifully.
Red Pepper Flakes: Just the right amount of kick! You can adjust the heat according to your taste. A little zing in the dish is just heavenly!
Vegetable Broth: This adds depth and richness to the sauce. I prefer low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Coconut Milk: This is where the creaminess comes into play! It gives the dish a nice richness and a hint of sweetness that balances out the savory flavors.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little bursts of flavor add a tangy sweetness that elevates the dish to the next level. Make sure to use ones that are packed in oil for better taste.
Fresh Spinach: A handful of greens to make it a little healthier and oh-so-pretty!
Dried Oregano and Paprika: These spices add depth and warmth. Together, they create a comforting and aromatic base.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, because no dish is complete without a little taste-testing!
Fresh Parsley: For garnish, adding a pop of freshness to finish off the dish beautifully.
Slices of Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce—trust me, you’ll want this!
Is Marry Me Chickpeas Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This dish is packed with nutritious ingredients that can be part of a balanced diet.
Chickpeas: High in protein and fiber, they keep you feeling full and happy for longer.
Coconut Milk: While it does contain fat, it’s predominantly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which can be beneficial in moderation.
Spinach: This leafy green adds a wonderful dose of vitamins (hello, iron and calcium!) and minerals.
Just a tiny note: if you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium broth and rinse your canned chickpeas well to reduce sodium levels.
Ingredients
– 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, chopped)
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
– Slices of crusty bread for serving
**Serves:** 4
How to Make Marry Me Chickpeas?
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chickpeas, vegetable broth, coconut milk, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
5. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the chickpeas warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired, alongside slices of crusty bread for dipping.
Creamy Love and Extra Tips!
If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to toss in some other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Want to add even more protein? A handful of cooked quinoa or lentils would work delightfully! And don’t forget to serve it hot—you want that bread to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Now, go ahead and try this recipe! I can’t wait to hear how you love it. Whether you’re sharing it with someone special or just indulging yourself (and no judgement here), it’s a dish that’s sure to bring smiles. Happy cooking!
