Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry

Name: Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 can coconut milk; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Cooked rice or naan for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love finding new ways to incorporate nutritious ingredients into my dinner routine, and this Chickpea Spinach Curry has become a favorite in our household. Using vibrant spices and wholesome veggies, this dish not only satisfies my hunger but also nourishes my body. With its creamy coconut base and the earthy flavors of chickpeas and spinach, it's a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it's quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:16:14.117Z

During one of my recent kitchen experiments, I decided to create a plant-based dish that brings comfort without the guilt. The combination of chickpeas and spinach worked beautifully with the coconut milk, creating a rich curry that bursts with flavor. What I love most is how the spices meld together, giving each bite a warm hug, truly making it a go-to dish.

I discovered that by adding fresh garlic and ginger at the beginning, the aroma fills the kitchen and sets the tone for an inviting meal. Serving this curry with fluffy rice or naan enhances the experience, making it not just dinner but a delightful event!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich in protein and fiber from chickpeas
Vibrant flavors that bring warmth to dinner
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight meals

      

Ingredient Insights

Chickpeas serve as the cornerstone of this curry, providing not only a rich source of protein but also a hearty texture that transforms this dish into a wholesome meal. When choosing chickpeas, consider using dry ones soaked overnight and simmered until tender for an even more robust flavor. Canned chickpeas are a great time-saver, but be sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium and improve their taste.

Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and an array of nutrients, including iron and absorbable vitamins. To maximize the spinach's integrity, avoid overcooking it; it should only take about 5 minutes to wilt, retaining its bright green hue for both visual appeal and optimal nutrition. If fresh spinach isn’t available, feel free to substitute it with frozen spinach—just ensure it's fully thawed and drained to avoid excess water in your curry.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the aromatics at a medium heat is crucial in building the dish's foundational flavors. When you sauté the onion, you're looking for a translucent appearance, indicating they are softening but not browning. This step generally takes about 3-4 minutes. If your garlic or ginger starts to burn before this point, decrease the heat to prevent bitter flavors from developing.

The addition of spices during the sautéing process allows them to bloom, intensifying their flavors. Ensure to stir the spices for about 2 minutes; this gives them time to release their essential oils, enhancing the overall aroma of the dish. A tip: if the mixture starts sticking to the pan, add a small splash of water to loosen it up and prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

This Chickpea Spinach Curry pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a traditional touch, serve it over fluffy cooked rice, which absorbs the creamy coconut sauce wonderfully. Alternatively, for a gluten-free option, consider pairing it with quinoa or cauliflower rice to keep the meal light yet satisfying. Naan is a lovely addition as well; use it to scoop up the curry and savor every bite.

Feel free to top your curry with fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing andbrightness. If you're planning to make a larger batch, this dish can be easily doubled, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just remember to store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for about three days.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 can coconut milk
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooked rice or naan for serving

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chickpea Spinach Curry:

Saute the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the curry powder and cumin, stirring well to coat the onions. Cook for about 2 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Mix in the Chickpeas and Coconut Milk

Add the chickpeas to the skillet, followed by the coconut milk. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

Incorporate Spinach

Once simmering, add the chopped spinach. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot with cooked rice or naan. Enjoy your nutritious and delicious meal!

Whip up this curry in no time and savor each bite!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding chopped chili peppers or a squeeze of lime just before serving.

Storing and Reheating

To store your Chickpea Spinach Curry, let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. A good tip is to divide it into single-serving portions to make reheating easier during the week. In the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to three days. If you wish to freeze it, ensure that the curry is cooled, then fill freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some room for expansion. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might find that it thickens a bit upon cooling; if that happens, simply add a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen it up. Microwave reheating is also an option, but ensure it’s uniform by using a medium setting and stirring halfway through to prevent hot spots.

Variations and Customization

This Chickpea Spinach Curry is versatile and lends itself well to customization. You can easily add other vegetables for additional nutrients; bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini would be great choices. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the skillet along with the onions to allow them to soften before incorporating the other ingredients. For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes when cooking the spices.

If you want to enhance the flavor profile further, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste during the spices step for acidity and depth or a splash of soy sauce for umami. You could also experiment with different curry paste blends, adjusting the heat level to your preference—shifting between green, red, or yellow can pleasantly change the experience of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the curry.

→ Is this curry vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making it a great vegan option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I substitute chickpeas with another protein?

Yes! You can use lentils or tofu for a different texture and flavor.