Spanish Spinach And Chickpeas Recipe

This comforting dish of chickpeas and spinach, kissed with smoked paprika and a hint of cumin, warms the soul with its rich, earthy flavors. The light tang of red wine vinegar and the option to serve it with toasted bread make it the perfect choice for a cozy night in or a casual get-together.

The vibrant flavors of Spanish Spinach and Chickpeas are reasons enough to love this dish. That, of course, and its being packed with wholesome goodness.

Chickpeas supply fiber and protein as well as a substantial amount of iron (which, in case you missed it, is what makes all forms of spinach a nutritional powerhouse). But wait, you may not have gotten to the aroma part yet.

The irresistible fragrance of Spanish Spinach and Chickpeas develops as you sauté garlic and onion in olive oil (the Spanish kitchen’s go-to fat for a reason) and then stir in smoked paprika and a hint of cumin.

Spanish Spinach And Chickpeas Recipe Ingredients

• Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, enhancing heart health.
• Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, iron, and fiber, boosting immunity.
• Chickpeas: High in protein and fiber, supporting digestion and satiety.
• Garlic: Contains allicin, promoting cardiovascular health and immunity.
• Onion: Adds flavor with antioxidants, supporting heart and immune health.
• Smoked Paprika: Provides a rich, smoky flavor and is loaded with antioxidants.
• Cumin: Earthy spice aiding digestion and offering anti-inflammatory benefits.

Spanish Spinach And Chickpeas Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bunch fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen), washed and chopped
• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Toasted bread, for serving (optional)

How to Make this Spanish Spinach And Chickpeas Recipe

1. In a large skillet, over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat. When oil is heated, add sliced garlic and cook until it is gold in color, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Once garlic has reached this stage, remove it and set it aside.

2. In the same pan, add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Combine the smoked paprika and cumin in a pot, and heat them until they become fragrant.

4. Combine the spices and onions with the tomato sauce in the skillet.

5. Incorporate the spinach into the skillet. If you’re working with fresh spinach, add it in stages, permitting it to become limp before you add more. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it is completely thawed and expressively drained before you add it.

6. Place the chickpeas in the skillet and softly blend with the mixture of spinach and onion.

7. Add salt and black pepper to taste, and stir well to distribute the seasoning evenly.

8. Add the red wine vinegar, and stir everything together until the vinegar is well incorporated.

9. Reduce the heat and allow the blend to slowly cook for approximately 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors merge into one.

10. Serve warm the chickpeas and Spanish spinach. Optionally, have on the side toasted bread for dipping or scooping. Enjoy!

Spanish Spinach And Chickpeas Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large skillet
2. Pot
3. Wooden spoon or spatula
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Measuring spoons
7. Can opener
8. Mixing bowl (optional for spinach)

FAQ

• What can I substitute for fresh spinach?In the absence of fresh spinach, frozen can be utilized. Be certain to completely thaw and drain it before deploying it in your dish.
• Is there a substitute for red wine vinegar?Alternatives to red wine vinegar include apple cider vinegar or sherry vinegar.
• Can this dish be made ahead of time?This dish can indeed be made in advance and kept in the fridge for a maximum of 3 days. It should be warmed back up before it is served.
• What pairs well with Spanish Spinach and Chickpeas?Toasted bread, rice, or couscous make nice companions to this dish, turning it into a complete meal.
• How can I add more protein to this dish?Topping it with a poached egg is one way to boost protein. Another is to stir in some cooked chicken or beef.
• Can I make this dish spicier?Certainly, a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes can be incorporated to up the ante in the heat department.
• Is smoked paprika essential?You can use regular paprika if smoked paprika is unavailable, but you will lose the distinct smoky flavor that smoked paprika lends to any dish.

Spanish Spinach And Chickpeas Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Substitute olive oil with sunflower oil or avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach to use a different leafy green.
Replace chickpeas with white beans or lentils for a change in texture and flavor.
Replace smoked paprika with standard paprika or cayenne pepper to achieve different heat levels.
Substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a different acidity.

Pro Tips

1. Enhance Aromatics When sautéing the garlic and onion, consider using medium-low heat to prevent burning and maximize the aromatic flavor. Cooking them slowly will bring out their natural sweetness, which can enhance the overall profile of the dish.

2. Spice Toasting Tip After adding the dried spices to the hot pan, let them toast for about 30 seconds to a minute before mixing with other ingredients. This can help release their essential oils and intensify their flavors, offering a deeper, more robust taste.

3. Garlic Infusion Before removing the sliced garlic, try infusing it in the olive oil for a bit longer to create a more fragrant base. You can also crush one of the garlic cloves slightly to enhance the flavor released during cooking.

4. Chickpea Texture For a varied texture, lightly mash some of the chickpeas before adding them to the skillet. This will help thicken the mixture a bit and offer a contrasting texture to the whole chickpeas.

5. Acid Balance Adjust the amount of red wine vinegar to your liking. Adding a bit more can brighten the dish, but taste as you go to ensure it doesn’t overpower other flavors. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can also provide a fresh, zesty note.