Marry Me Chickpeas

This one-pan Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is a delightful twist on the popular dish, perfect for those who crave comfort food without compromising on health. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s not only creamy and satisfying but also packed with flavor. This versatile dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep, ensuring that you’ll fall in love with every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of only 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil creates an irresistible taste.
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy all the creaminess without any animal products, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything is cooked in one pan!
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, make sure you have the right tools ready to go. Having your kitchen organized will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan: This allows for even cooking of all ingredients while providing enough space to stir comfortably.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing without scratching your cookware and helps in evenly distributing flavors.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of spices and ingredients for the best taste outcome.

Ingredients

To create your own Marry Me Chickpeas, gather these simple ingredients:

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Chickpeas

• (2) 15-ounce cans chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

For Creaminess

• 1 cup vegan cream (See Notes)

For Freshness

• 2 cups baby spinach (sliced)
• 4-5 fresh basil leaves (chopped)

Optional Topping

• 1/2 cup grated vegan parmesan cheese (I used Violife)

How to Make Marry Me Chickpeas

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

In a large sauté pan over low-medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavors.

Step 3: Combine with Chickpeas

Now add the drained chickpeas, vegetable broth, tomato paste, vegan cream, and sliced spinach to the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes until warm and the spinach has wilted. Taste; add more salt or pepper if desired.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Ingredients

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated vegan parmesan. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping or over cooked rice or pasta. Enjoy your Marry Me Chickpeas!

How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal at home or an impressive dish for guests, there are plenty of serving options to choose from.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve hot with slices of crusty bread for dipping, allowing you to savor every bit of the creamy chickpea goodness.

Over Rice

• Spoon the chickpeas over cooked rice for a hearty meal. Brown rice or jasmine rice pairs well and adds extra fiber.

On Pasta

• Toss the chickpeas with your favorite pasta shape for a quick and satisfying dinner. Garnish with fresh basil for added flavor.

Stuffed in Sweet Potatoes

• Scoop the chickpea mixture into baked sweet potatoes for a nutritious and filling option. Top with avocado for creaminess.

In Wraps

• Use tortillas to create wraps filled with Marry Me Chickpeas, fresh spinach, and sliced cucumbers. Perfect for lunches on the go!

How to Perfect Marry Me Chickpeas

To ensure your Marry Me Chickpeas turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried ones.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving! Adjust salt, pepper, or red chili flakes based on your preference.
• Experiment with Cream: Try different types of vegan cream or make your own using soaked cashews for a unique twist.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the dish to simmer longer can deepen the flavors; just be careful not to overcook.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chickpeas

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chickpeas can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that complements the creamy flavors while adding a crunchy texture.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies roasted until tender provide a delightful contrast in both taste and texture.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with cucumber and cherry tomatoes offers freshness alongside the rich chickpeas.

4. Mixed Greens Salad
   A simple salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar balances the richness of the chickpeas wonderfully.

5. Couscous Pilaf
   Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and spices makes an excellent base that absorbs the flavors from the chickpeas.

6. Hummus Platter
   Serve hummus alongside pita chips and veggie sticks as an appetizer before diving into the main dish!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chickpeas, it’s easy to overlook a few important details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds depth and flavor. Always include fresh minced garlic for a rich taste.
• Using dried herbs only: While dried herbs work, fresh ones enhance flavor significantly. Opt for fresh basil when possible.
• Not draining chickpeas properly: Excess liquid can make the dish watery. Make sure to drain and rinse your chickpeas well before adding them.
• Overcooking spinach: Spinach cooks quickly and should be just wilted. Add it towards the end of cooking for optimal texture.
• Ignoring season adjustments: Tastes vary, so always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spice levels as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Chickpeas

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chickpeas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of vegetable broth if needed to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Chickpeas.

Can I customize Marry Me Chickpeas?

You can definitely customize this recipe! Add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chickpeas?

This dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or even baked sweet potatoes for a hearty meal.

How do I make Marry Me Chickpeas creamy?

Use vegan cream or coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture without dairy ingredients.

Are Marry Me Chickpeas gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free bread or rice as a side, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chickpeas is not just delicious but also versatile! This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Try it today and see how quickly it becomes a family favorite!