SPICY CHICKPEA AND SPINACH STIR-FRY
This Spicy Chickpea and Spinach Stir-Fry is a vibrant, protein-rich meal infused with bold, aromatic spices. Chickpeas are lightly crisped and coated in earthy cumin, fiery red chilli flakes, turmeric and garlic, creating a smoky and spicy flavour base with olive oil and salt. Fresh spinach is wilted into the mix, adding a nutrient-dense leafy green element that balances out the hearty chickpeas. A drizzle of lemon juice brightens the dish with a citrus finish, making it a refreshing and wholesome option. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for those looking for a quick, plant-based recipe that is rich in protein, fibre and essential nutrients. Whether served as a light meal, a side dish or paired with rice or quinoa for a more substantial serving, this stir-fry offers a deliciously healthy way to enjoy the natural goodness of chickpeas and spinach in under 15 minutes.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Side Dish, Main Course
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Indian, Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Stir-Fry, One-Pot Wonders, Quick & Easy
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Casual Dinner, Meal Prep, Vegan Meal, Healthy Eating
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, High Fibre, High Protein
DISH TYPE
Stir-Fry, Plant-Based Meal
INGREDIENTS
- ½ cup canned chickpeas, drained
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon red chilli flakes
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 7g
- Fats: 6g
- Fibre: 6g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Spicy Chickpea and Spinach Stir-Fry:
- Heat the oil: In a pan over a medium flame, add olive oil and let it warm for 30 seconds.
- Sauté the garlic: Add minced garlic to the pan and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the spices: Sprinkle in cumin, turmeric and red chilli flakes, stirring for another 30 seconds to release the flavours.
- Toss in the chickpeas: Add the drained chickpeas to the pan, stirring well to coat them with the spice mixture. Cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing them to crisp slightly.
- Add the spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and salt, allowing the leaves to wilt down while mixing with the chickpeas. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Finish with lemon juice: Remove from heat and drizzle the lemon juice over the stir-fry for a refreshing zing.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy as a standalone dish or pair with quinoa, rice or warm pita bread for a more filling meal.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
8 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Spicy Chickpea and Spinach Stir-Fry:
- For extra crispiness: Let the chickpeas cook undisturbed for a minute before stirring.
- Adjust the spice level: Increase or reduce the red chilli flakes to suit your heat preference.
- Add texture: Toss in a handful of toasted nuts or seeds like sesame or sunflower seeds.
- Use fresh chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak and cook them before following the recipe.
- Boost protein: Serve with quinoa or top with a spoonful of hummus for added nutrition.
VARIATIONS
- Low Sodium: Reduce salt and use fresh herbs like coriander or parsley for extra flavour.
- Mediterranean Twist: Add olives and cherry tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
- Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of coconut milk for a creamy, slightly sweet variation.
- Hearty Meal: Serve with whole-grain rice or a warm flatbread for a complete, satisfying dish.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or cashews for an added crunch and depth of flavour.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over a medium flame for 2–3 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.