Name: Easy Spinach Chickpea Cakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained; Bunch basil; Bunch parsley; 1 cup spinach; 1 egg; 1 carrot, grated; ½ onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/3 tsp salt or to taste; 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp black pepper; Oil for frying

why make this recipe

Easy Spinach Chickpea Cakes are a fantastic choice for those who want a delicious, nutritious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. They are packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas and a variety of vegetables, making them a healthy option for lunch or dinner. These cakes are also vegetarian-friendly and can be enjoyed by everyone, whether you are on a special diet or just looking for a wholesome dish. Plus, they are simple to make and taste great!

how to make Easy Spinach Chickpea Cakes

Ingredients:

2 cups canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
Bunch basil
Bunch parsley
1 cup spinach
1 egg*
1 carrot, grated
½ onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/3 tsp salt or to taste
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp black pepper
Oil for frying

Directions:

Mash chickpeas in a bowl until they are roughly smooth.
Chop the basil, parsley, spinach, carrot, onion, and garlic into small pieces.
Add all the chopped vegetables and remaining ingredients to the bowl with the chickpeas, except the oil. Mix everything together until well combined.
Form the mixture into small patties using your hands.
Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place the patties in the pan.
Fry the patties on both sides until they turn golden-brown. This should take about 3-4 minutes for each side.
Once cooked, take them out and serve them with a salad and hummus or a tasty garlicky avocado sauce.

how to serve Easy Spinach Chickpea Cakes

These delicious cakes can be served warm or at room temperature. They go well with a fresh salad, some dips like hummus or garlicky avocado sauce, or even in a wrap. You can add your favorite toppings or serve them alongside any of your favorite sauces for extra flavor!

how to store Easy Spinach Chickpea Cakes

You can store any leftover chickpea cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. To freeze, place the cooked cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer bag, and they can last for up to 2 months. To reheat, just heat them in a pan or the oven until warmed through.

tips to make Easy Spinach Chickpea Cakes

Make sure to drain and rinse the chickpeas well to reduce the sodium content.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to add different flavors.
If the mixture seems too wet, you can add breadcrumbs or oats to help bind the cakes.
For extra crunch, you can add finely chopped nuts or seeds to the mixture.

variation (if any)

You can easily customize these chickpea cakes by adding more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. For a spicier taste, try adding jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder. You can also use different herbs like dill or cilantro for a unique flavor twist. If you want a vegan option, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) or use unsweetened applesauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried chickpeas, but you will need to soak and cook them beforehand.

2. What can I serve with these chickpea cakes?
They can be served with a salad, hummus, or dips like tzatziki or avocado sauce. You can also enjoy them in a sandwich or wrap.

3. Can I make these cakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the patties ahead of time. Just keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them.