Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry

Name: Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can coconut milk; 2 tablespoons curry powder; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a vibrant dish that I can enjoy any night of the week. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze! Every time I whip this up, I’m amazed at how quickly everything comes together, and it’s always a hit with my family. If you're looking for a hearty meal that doesn't compromise on health, this recipe is the answer.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:52:09.815Z

Creating this curry was a delightful experience for me. I started by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger, which immediately filled my kitchen with aromatic goodness. As the spices mingled with the veggies, I realized this dish not only offers a warmth in flavor but also a comforting essence that reminds me of home-cooked meals.

The secret to the luscious texture of this curry lies in the thick coconut milk that I add. It brings a creamy richness that balances perfectly with the earthiness of the chickpeas and the fresh spinach. Each bite is a comforting embrace, making it an instant favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients packed with protein and fiber
Vibrant flavors that excite the palate
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The primary ingredients in this Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry are chickpeas, spinach, and coconut milk. Chickpeas, or garbanzo beans, are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a staple in vegetarian diets. They not only add nutritional value but also provide a creamy texture to the curry when they are cooked. The coconut milk adds a rich, creamy base that balances the spices beautifully, while also contributing healthy fats that promote satiety.

Fresh spinach is another key player in this dish, as it wilts down quickly to integrate into the sauce. Beyond its nutritional benefits, which include high levels of vitamins A and C, spinach adds a beautiful green hue and a fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the coconut milk. Opt for organic spinach if you can, as it tends to have a more vibrant taste and color, enhancing the visual appeal of your dish.

Cooking Techniques for Maximum Flavor

When sautéing the onions, aim for a medium heat to avoid burning; you want them to become translucent and slightly caramelized, which will add sweetness to your curry. Keep an eye on the pan and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding the garlic and ginger just after the onions will prevent them from burning and help release their aromatic oils, creating a fragrant base that makes your curry irresistible. If you notice any browning on the bottom of the pot, gently scrape it up as you stir; this fond adds deeper flavor.

Incorporating the chickpeas and coconut milk should be done gently. When simmering, keep the heat at a low to medium to maintain a gentle bubble, allowing the flavors to meld without overcooking the beans. If you're using dried chickpeas instead of canned, unsoaked beans will need about 45 minutes to cook, while soaked beans reduce that time to around 30 minutes. Adjust the simmer time accordingly to ensure your chickpeas are tender but not mushy.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create the perfect chickpea spinach curry!

Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 can coconut milk
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delightful chickpea spinach curry!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the curry powder and stir well to coat the onions. Let it cook for about 1 minute to enhance the flavors.

Incorporate Chickpeas and Coconut Milk

Add the drained chickpeas to the pot, followed by the coconut milk. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.

Finish with Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the pot, stirring until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the curry into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve warm with rice or bread.

Enjoy your healthy chickpea spinach curry, a perfect quick dinner option!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more nutrition. You can also adjust the amount of curry powder to suit your taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best features of this chickpea spinach curry is how well it stores. You can prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. For optimal freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

If you want to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce appears too thick.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This curry pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a traditional touch, serve it over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan bread to soak up the rich sauce. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice makes an excellent substitute. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top can also add a delightful crunch.

For those wanting to switch things up, consider adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or sweet potatoes. Simply chop them finely and add them alongside the chickpeas to ensure they cook through. If you're after a bit more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper can be stirred in with the spices. This dish is versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste or what you have on hand.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the curry.

→ How can I make this curry spicier?

You can add chopped fresh chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this chickpea spinach curry is entirely vegan and gluten-free!