Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Espinacas con Garbanzos is a wonderful mix of earthy chickpeas and fresh spinach, seasoned with aromatic garlic and spices like cumin and paprika. It’s a light yet hearty dish that is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with fiber, protein, and iron. This dish is not only a healthy, flavorful option, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, using pantry staples and fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or as a side to accompany your main courses.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon sweet paprika (or smoked paprika for extra depth)
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1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas)
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6 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
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¼ cup vegetable broth or water (for added moisture, optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the ingredients: Drain and rinse the chickpeas if using canned. Wash and chop the spinach, and set aside.
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Cook the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the spices: Stir in the cumin and paprika, cooking for another 30 seconds to release their flavors.
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Add the chickpeas: Stir the chickpeas into the pan, coating them with the spices. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Add the spinach: Gradually add the chopped spinach in batches, stirring it in until it wilts. If needed, add vegetable broth or water to help the spinach cook down and create a bit of moisture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer and serve: Once the spinach has wilted and everything is well combined, remove from heat. Optionally, drizzle with lemon juice for a bit of freshness and acidity.
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Serve: Serve Espinacas con Garbanzos warm, either as a side dish or with crusty bread, rice, or quinoa.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 15 minutes
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Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add fried or poached eggs on top, or serve with grilled chicken or roasted tofu for additional protein.
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Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili to bring a little heat to the dish.
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Other Greens: If you prefer, you can mix in other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for added variety.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika to give the dish a deeper, smokier flavor.
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Vegan Option: This recipe is already vegan-friendly. You can add tahini on top for a creamy texture if desired.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftover Espinacas con Garbanzos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: The dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. However, the spinach may lose some of its texture after thawing.
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Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if needed to restore moisture.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used as a substitute for fresh spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
2. Can I add other vegetables to Espinacas con Garbanzos?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Is Espinacas con Garbanzos gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free and made from whole, plant-based ingredients.
4. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, Espinacas con Garbanzos can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. The flavors will actually deepen after sitting.
5. Can I add nuts or seeds to this dish?
Yes, you can sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top for added crunch and texture.
6. How do I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a fresh chopped chili to the dish for some heat. Adjust the spice level to your liking.
7. Can I use dry chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Be sure to soak and cook them before using them in the recipe.
8. What can I serve with Espinacas con Garbanzos?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or couscous. It can also be served alongside grilled meats, tofu, or eggs.
9. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
10. Can I add lemon zest to this dish?
Yes, adding lemon zest will give the dish a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the earthiness of the chickpeas and spinach.
Conclusion
Espinacas con Garbanzos is a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying dish that combines the richness of chickpeas with the freshness of spinach. The earthy spices and tangy lemon elevate the flavors, making it a simple yet delicious addition to your meal rotation. Whether served as a main dish, side dish, or part of a larger spread, this Spanish classic is sure to be a hit with its light yet hearty appeal. Enjoy it as a tasty, nutritious meal that is easy to make and full of Mediterranean charm.
