Name: Marry Me Chickpeas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 5 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped); 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas (drained and rinsed); 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 cup vegan cream; 2 cups baby spinach (sliced); 4-5 fresh basil leaves (chopped); Optional: 1/2 cup grated vegan parmesan cheese

why make this recipe

Marry Me Chickpeas is a delightful vegan dish that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. With the combination of chickpeas, sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, this meal is perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. The creamy texture and bold flavors will impress everyone at the table, making it truly worthy of its romantic name.

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how to make Marry Me Chickpeas

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
5 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup vegan cream (see notes)
2 cups baby spinach (sliced)
4-5 fresh basil leaves (chopped)
Optional: 1/2 cup grated vegan parmesan cheese (I used Violife)

Directions:

In a large sauté pan over low-medium heat, warm the olive oil.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until it is fragrant.
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
Now add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, tomato paste, vegan cream, and sliced spinach. Stir well.
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, until warmed and the spinach has wilted.
Taste the mixture and add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil and grated parmesan.
Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping or over cooked rice, pasta, or baked sweet potato. Enjoy!

how to serve Marry Me Chickpeas

Serve Marry Me Chickpeas warm. They go well with crusty bread, allowing you to scoop up the creamy chickpeas easily. You can also pair the dish with rice or pasta for a heartier meal. For a special touch, sprinkle some extra fresh basil or vegan parmesan on top.

how to store Marry Me Chickpeas

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it seems thick.

tips to make Marry Me Chickpeas

Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer red chili flakes based on your preference.
Make it creamier by adding an extra splash of vegan cream.
You can mix in other veggies you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini.

variation (if any)

Feel free to use different beans like white beans or black beans instead of chickpeas. You can also switch up the greens; kale or swiss chard would work well. For a protein boost, add tofu or tempeh.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but the flavor will be different. You may need to add more seasoning to achieve a similar taste.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free. Just ensure that the vegan cream you choose is also gluten-free.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it before serving. The flavors may even deepen and improve!