Marry Me Chickpeas Recipe

Say ‘I Do’ to This Charming Marry Me Chickpeas Recipe

Packed with aromatic spices and bursting with flavor, this marry me chickpeas recipe promises to steal your heart at first bite.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients dance together in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Tender chickpeas absorb rich, tangy seasonings that elevate this simple dish into something extraordinary.

Weeknight dinners will never be the same after you experience this delectable creation.

Fragrant herbs and zesty spices create a symphonic combination that feels both comforting and exciting.

Vegetarian or not, you’ll fall head over heels for these irresistible chickpeas that bring warmth and excitement to your plate.

Prepare to be charmed by a recipe so delicious, it might just make someone propose.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chickpeas Dish

Aromatics:
  • Garlic: A fragrant base that adds depth and warmth to the dish.
  • Oil: Provides a smooth cooking medium for the ingredients.
Main Ingredients:
  • Chickpeas: The protein-packed star of the recipe that creates a hearty and satisfying meal.
  • Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Tomato Paste: Brings rich, concentrated tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
  • Cream: Creates a creamy and luxurious texture.
  • Spinach: Adds nutritious green color and fresh, earthy taste.
Seasonings and Herbs:
  • Sundried Tomatoes, Oregano, Chili Flakes, Salt, Pepper: Provide a complex and balanced flavor combination.
  • Fresh Basil: Adds a bright, fresh finishing touch to the dish.
  • Vegan Parmesan: Optional topping that offers a cheesy, savory note.

Making Marry Me Chickpeas at Home

Step 1: Awaken The Garlic

Grab a spacious skillet and drizzle olive oil over low-medium warmth.

Gently swirl minced garlic until it releases its aromatic magic and turns lightly golden, releasing a heavenly fragrance.

Step 2: Spice Up The Scene

Toss in sundried tomatoes, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.

Dance these ingredients together for a quick minute, allowing their flavors to mingle and intensify.

Step 3: Marry The Ingredients

Welcome chickpeas into the skillet along with:
  • Vegetable broth
  • Tomato paste
  • Creamy liquid
  • Fresh spinach

Stir everything with loving care, ensuring each ingredient feels embraced.

Step 4: Let Love Simmer

Allow the mixture to bubble gently for approximately 5 minutes.

Watch as the spinach softens and the flavors become best friends, creating a harmonious blend.

Step 5: Taste And Adjust

Sample your creation.

Feel free to sprinkle extra salt, pepper, or chili flakes to match your taste preference.

Step 6: Final Flourish

Remove from heat and shower with freshly torn basil leaves.

If desired, crown with a sprinkle of vegan parmesan for an extra touch of deliciousness.

Pro Tips for Marry Me Chickpeas

  • Crush garlic cloves instead of mincing to release more intense aroma and deeper taste profile.
  • Adjust chili flakes carefully; start with less and add incrementally to match your heat tolerance.
  • Add spinach last and remove from heat quickly to maintain vibrant green color and fresh texture.
  • Use full-fat coconut cream for richer consistency if you want a more luxurious dairy-free version.
  • Let chickpeas simmer longer to help them soak up more seasoning and develop deeper flavor notes.

Tasty Twists on Marry Me Chickpeas

  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace tomato paste with gluten-free tomato sauce and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Mediterranean Remix: Swap spinach for kale, add kalamata olives, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
  • Protein Power Boost: Include diced chicken or tofu for extra protein, adjusting cooking time to ensure meat is fully cooked.
  • Spicy Southwest Variation: Add cumin, smoked paprika, and diced green chilies, then top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.

Marry Me Chickpeas Serving Inspiration

Creamy Comfort Companions: Perfect Pairings

  • Fluffy Rice Bed: Spoon the chickpea mixture over warm jasmine or basmati rice for a hearty, satisfying meal that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
  • Crusty Bread Dippers: Serve with toasted sourdough or rustic ciabatta slices to mop up every last drop of the rich, flavorful liquid.
  • Fresh Green Sidekick: Add a crisp mixed green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the creamy chickpea dish and provide a refreshing contrast.
  • Mediterranean Mezze Spread: Complement the chickpeas with olives, cucumber salad, and a dollop of dairy-free tzatziki for a complete Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Storage Tips for Marry Me Chickpeas

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Transfer chickpea mixture to freezer-safe containers and freeze for maximum 3 months. Avoid freezing spinach for best texture when reheating.
  • Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to prevent drying. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly and maintain creamy consistency.
  • Chop ingredients and measure seasonings in advance, storing separately in the refrigerator. This makes quick assembly possible when you're ready to cook the dish.

FAQs

  • What makes Marry Me Chickpeas a special dish?

Marry Me Chickpeas combine tender chickpeas with a flavorful, creamy tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and spices, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and packed with protein.

  • Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones?

Yes, canned chickpeas work perfectly for this recipe and save a lot of prep time. Just be sure to rinse and drain them well before cooking to remove excess sodium and improve flavor.

  • Is Marry Me Chickpeas suitable for a vegan diet?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan when you use plant-based ingredients like olive oil and skip any dairy additions. It’s a great plant-powered option for anyone avoiding animal products.

Marry Me Chickpeas Savory Features

  • Quicken Weeknight Dinners: Whip up this mouthwatering chickpea dish in just a few minutes, perfect for busy households craving delicious, nutritious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Boost Nutrition Powerhouse: Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, vibrant spinach, and flavorful herbs, this recipe delivers a wholesome punch of essential nutrients in every single bite.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients, adjust spice levels, or add your favorite toppings to make this versatile dish uniquely yours, catering to different taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and straightforward cooking steps mean you'll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying a delectable meal with family and friends.
Print
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Marry Me Chickpeas Recipe

Marry Me Chickpeas Recipe


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4.6 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy marry me chickpeas deliver comfort with Mediterranean charm, promising irresistible flavor in every spoonful. Rich with aromatic spices and tender chickpeas, you’ll fall in love with this simple yet sensational dish that brings warmth to your dinner table.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (15 ounces/425 grams each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup vegan cream
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach

Seasoning and Aromatics:

  • 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped sundried tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 45 fresh basil leaves, chopped

Optional Topping:

  • 1/2 cup vegan parmesan (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté minced garlic in olive oil over low-medium heat until aromatic, approximately 1-2 minutes.
  2. Introduce sundried tomatoes, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper, allowing flavors to meld for 60 seconds.
  3. Pour in chickpeas, vegetable broth, tomato paste, and plant-based cream, gently incorporating spinach for even distribution.
  4. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, ensuring spinach softens and ingredients are thoroughly heated.
  5. Evaluate seasoning, adjusting with additional salt, pepper, or chili flakes to enhance taste profile.
  6. Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped basil and optional vegan parmesan for a final flavor boost.

Notes

  • Infuse Garlic Slowly cook garlic in oil to prevent burning and release maximum flavor without bitterness.
  • Customize Spice Levels Adjust chili flakes based on heat preference, starting with a small amount and gradually increasing for personal taste.
  • Boost Protein Content Swap spinach for kale or add extra plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a more substantial meal.
  • Make Ahead Friendly This dish tastes even better the next day, so consider preparing in advance to let flavors develop and meld together.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 10 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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