Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry

Name: Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups fresh spinach; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Cooked rice or naan for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry when I need a nourishing meal that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up. The combination of chickpeas and spinach creates a rich taste experience, and it’s packed with nutrients. Cooking this dish allows the spices to bloom, filling the kitchen with mouth-watering aromas. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase how simple ingredients can transform into something amazing. Whether I’m feeding my family or impressing friends, this curry always hits the mark!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:01:12.942Z

Each time I make this curry, I'm amazed at how quickly it comes together. The secret lies in using canned chickpeas and fresh spinach, allowing me to create a meal that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. The spices sauté beautifully, adding a depth of flavor that makes this dish super comforting.

When I first experimented with this recipe, I learned that letting the chickpeas absorb the spices during cooking makes all the difference. I recommend adding a squeeze of lemon just before serving to brighten the flavors. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that nourishes both body and soul!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A vibrant blend of spices that brings warmth to every bite
Nutritious chickpeas and spinach provide a wholesome dinner
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights

      

Cooking Techniques to Enhance Flavor

When crafting this chickpea spinach curry, the order in which you combine ingredients significantly impacts the overall flavor. By sautéing the onion until it turns translucent, you develop a sweeter base that complements the spices beautifully. Make sure to cook the spices for a minute or two after adding them to release their essential oils and enhance their aromatic profiles. You want the mixture to be fragrant but not browned, which can introduce bitterness.

Using fresh ginger instead of ground ginger elevates the dish with a brighter, more pungent flavor. If you only have powdered ginger, use about half the amount. Additionally, I recommend stirring the spices with the onion until they are glossy and fragrant; this will help ensure that the spices distribute evenly throughout the curry during simmering. Keep an eye on the heat; medium allows for even cooking without burning.

Substitutions and Variations

This chickpea spinach curry can easily accommodate dietary preferences. For a creamier texture, you can add a half-cup of coconut milk during the simmering stage—this will also lend a subtle sweetness that balances the spices. If you're looking to reduce carbs, serve the curry over cauliflower rice or with zoodles instead of traditional rice or naan. For a protein boost, consider adding diced chicken or tofu; just cook them with the aromatics before you add the spices.

If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and drain excess liquid before adding it to the pan. I recommend adjusting the cooking time accordingly; cooked spinach will blend in more quickly compared to fresh. Don’t hesitate to experiment by incorporating additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, as they add color and nutrition without overwhelming the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Chickpea Spinach Curry:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cooked rice or naan for serving

Once you have your ingredients, you’re ready to create a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your curry:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, then stir in the garlic and ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Add Spices

Add the cumin, coriander, and turmeric to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring to combine the spices with the onions.

Incorporate Chickpeas and Tomatoes

Stir in the chickpeas and diced tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add Spinach

Gradually add the fresh spinach, stirring until it's wilted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and add a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve the curry warm over rice or alongside naan.

Enjoy your healthy and flavorful dinner!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add chili powder or fresh chilies to the spices. You can also throw in any leftover vegetables you have on hand for added nutrition.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This curry stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great option for meal prep. If you plan to make a larger batch, consider freezing portions. Let the curry cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, and it should last for about three months. Just label your containers for easy identification later!

When reheating, you can warm your curry on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain an even temperature. If the curry has thickened in the fridge, you can add a splash of water or vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.

Serving Suggestions

This chickpea spinach curry pairs wonderfully with various sides. For a balanced meal, serve it alongside steamed basmati rice or fluffy naan, which are perfect for sopping up the rich sauce. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top before serving adds a refreshing touch that brightens the dish.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the dish just before serving. These toppings create a contrast to the warm spices and enhance the overall experience. If you're feeling adventurous, add a side of pickled vegetables for a bit of tang to balance the flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add chili powder, cayenne, or fresh chopped chilies according to your taste.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This Chickpea Spinach Curry is completely vegan and also gluten-free.

→ Can I meal prep this curry?

Yes, this curry keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and also freezes nicely, making it great for meal prep!