Chickpeas are a powerhouse ingredient beloved around the world for their versatility, nutrition, and hearty flavor. Combining them with fresh vegetables creates a vibrant, healthy dish that can serve as a main course or a satisfying side.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this chickpea veg recipe is a must-try. It’s easy to prepare, full of aromatic spices, and packed with textures that make every bite delightful.
This recipe brings together the nutty goodness of chickpeas with colorful veggies like bell peppers, tomatoes, and spinach, simmered gently in a fragrant tomato-based sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s filling without being heavy and sure to please the whole family.
Plus, it’s gluten-free, vegan, and brimming with protein and fiber. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this simple yet delicious chickpea vegetable recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chickpea veg recipe is a beautiful balance of flavor, nutrition, and ease. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Highly nutritious: Chickpeas provide plant-based protein and fiber, while fresh vegetables add vitamins and minerals.
- Flavor-packed: A blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika add warmth and depth.
- Easy to make: Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry staples and fresh produce.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a stew, over rice, or stuffed into wraps.
- Diet-friendly: Naturally vegan and gluten-free, suitable for many dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Can opener
- Citrus juicer (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper to the pan. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, allowing them to break down and create a chunky sauce.
- Sprinkle in the spices: cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, and chili flakes if using. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Add the drained chickpeas and pour in the vegetable broth or water. Stir everything together, bring to a gentle simmer, and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes. This helps meld the flavors.
- Mix in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish to brighten the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
For a creamier texture, stir in a couple of tablespoons of coconut milk or plain yogurt just before serving.
Swap out the spinach for kale or Swiss chard depending on what you have on hand.
Add diced zucchini or carrots early in the cooking process for extra veggies.
Try adding a pinch of garam masala or curry powder for a different spice profile.
Leftovers taste great reheated and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 9g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Vitamin A | 35% DV |
| Vitamin C | 40% DV |
| Iron | 20% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This chickpea veg recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments:
- Fluffy basmati or jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Warm naan bread or pita for scooping and dipping.
- Quinoa or couscous for a protein-packed grain alternative.
- A dollop of plain Greek yogurt or vegan yogurt to add creaminess and cool the spices.
- Fresh salad or roasted vegetables for added texture and freshness.
For more delicious and nutritious recipes using wholesome ingredients, check out these favorites:
Conclusion
This chickpea veg recipe is a delicious celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in harmony. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
The combination of tender chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and warming spices creates a comforting dish that’s both hearty and healthy.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or prepping meals ahead of time, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables and spices to make it your own.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and nourishing qualities of this chickpea veg dish — your body and taste buds will thank you!
📖 Recipe Card: Chickpea Veg Recipe
Description: A flavorful and nutritious chickpea and vegetable stew that's easy to prepare. Perfect as a hearty meal for any time of day.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in chickpeas, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 14 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 45 g
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