Chickpea and Spinach Casserole
Highlighted under: Simple Everyday Cooking
I absolutely love making this Chickpea and Spinach Casserole, especially on busy weekdays. It's the perfect dish for a quick and healthy dinner, packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of chickpeas and spinach provides a hearty base, while the spices give it a double boost. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some greens! I often prepare this in a large batch to enjoy leftovers for lunch, and it never disappoints. You’ll find that everyone will be asking for seconds!
When I first created this Chickpea and Spinach Casserole, I wanted a dish that was not only easy to make but also rich in flavor and nutrients. It took a few tries to balance the spices just right, but the end result was a comforting casserole that has become a family favorite. Using canned chickpeas made it super quick, and fresh spinach adds vibrant color and taste.
One tip I discovered is to roast the spices before adding them to the casserole, enhancing their aromatic qualities. This simple step elevates the dish, making the flavors pop. I'm always thrilled to serve this to friends, and the leftovers are just as delicious, making it ideal for meal prep!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying with a mix of protein and greens
- Easy to prepare, perfect for meal prepping
- Bright flavors from spices that give a comforting warmth
Ingredients
Ingredients for Chickpea and Spinach Casserole
- 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Prepare the Base
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Spices and Chickpeas
Stir in cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute. Then, add the chickpeas, mixing well.
Incorporate Spinach
Add the chopped spinach and allow it to wilt, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Bake
Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and then transfer the mixture to a casserole dish. Top with cheese, if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Pro Tips
- For additional flavor, you can add sun-dried tomatoes or olives. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your heat preference.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.
→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding.
→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.
→ What can I serve with Chickpea and Spinach Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Chickpea and Spinach Casserole
I absolutely love making this Chickpea and Spinach Casserole, especially on busy weekdays. It's the perfect dish for a quick and healthy dinner, packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of chickpeas and spinach provides a hearty base, while the spices give it a double boost. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some greens! I often prepare this in a large batch to enjoy leftovers for lunch, and it never disappoints. You’ll find that everyone will be asking for seconds!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Simple Everyday Cooking
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Chickpea and Spinach Casserole
- 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute. Then, add the chickpeas, mixing well.
Add the chopped spinach and allow it to wilt, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and then transfer the mixture to a casserole dish. Top with cheese, if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Extra Tips
- For additional flavor, you can add sun-dried tomatoes or olives. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your heat preference.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 410mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 41g
- Dietary Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 14g