Marry Me Chickpeas

This one-pan Marry Me Chickpeas recipe puts a vegan twist on the viral comfort food, Marry Me Chicken! In just 15 minutes, you can create a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish is packed with flavor and offers a creamy, comforting experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Flavorful and Indulgent: With garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices, every bite is bursting with flavor that satisfies your cravings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with crusty bread, over rice or pasta, or even stuffed in a baked sweet potato for a unique twist.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein-rich chickpeas and fresh spinach, this meal is as nourishing as it is delicious.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made entirely without animal products, everyone can enjoy this heartwarming dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan: Ideal for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing enough space to stir comfortably.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures precise measurements of spices and liquids to enhance the flavor of your dish.

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 Chickpea Mixture

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

For the Finishing Touches

• 2 cups baby spinach (sliced)
• 4-5 fresh basil leaves (chopped)
• optional: 1/2 cup grated vegan parmesan cheese (I used Violife)

How to Make Marry Me Chickpeas

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

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

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

1. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook everything together for another minute to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

1. Now add the drained chickpeas, vegetable broth, tomato paste, vegan cream, and sliced spinach.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
3. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through and spinach has wilted.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs

1. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil and optional grated parmesan cheese.
2. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping or atop cooked rice or pasta. Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chickpeas!

How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer a hearty meal or a light snack, these chickpeas will surely impress. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping, allowing the bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Over Rice

• Spoon the chickpeas over fluffy cooked rice. The grains will absorb all the flavors, creating a comforting meal.

On Pasta

• Toss the Marry Me Chickpeas with your favorite pasta for a quick and satisfying dinner option.

Stuffed in a Sweet Potato

• Bake a sweet potato and fill it with the chickpeas for a nutritious and filling dish that’s packed with flavor.

As a Salad Topping

• Use Marry Me Chickpeas as a topping for fresh salads. Their creamy texture adds richness to any salad bowl.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chickpeas

To make the most out of your Marry Me Chickpeas, follow these helpful tips for an even tastier dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and basil enhance the flavors significantly, making the dish more aromatic and vibrant.
• Adjust spice levels: If you like it spicy, feel free to add more red chili flakes or even some chopped fresh chilies.
• Opt for homemade broth: Using homemade vegetable broth can elevate the flavor profile compared to store-bought options.
• Experiment with greens: While spinach is great, try adding other leafy greens like kale or arugula for different textures and flavors.
• Let it sit: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Garnish wisely: A sprinkle of vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast on top before serving adds an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chickpeas

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chickpeas can enhance your meal. Consider these delicious options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread
   Serve crispy garlic bread on the side to add crunch and flavor contrast.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that balances out the creamy chickpeas.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes makes for a light and healthy accompaniment.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Roast seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added sweetness and texture.

5. Cauliflower Rice
   For a low-carb option, serve Marry Me Chickpeas over cauliflower rice, allowing all flavors to shine through.

6. Couscous Pilaf
   Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs creates a delightful base that pairs well with the chickpea dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chickpeas, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using dried chickpeas: Freshly cooked chickpeas can become mushy and may alter the dish’s texture. Always opt for canned or precooked chickpeas for the best results.
• Overcooking the garlic: Cooking garlic too long can make it bitter. Sauté it until fragrant but be careful not to let it brown too much.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Different brands of broth and tomatoes can vary in saltiness. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
• Neglecting to wilt the spinach properly: Not allowing the spinach to wilt can lead to a raw taste. Ensure you give it enough time in the heat to blend with the other flavors.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t replicate. Don’t skip this crucial step for enhancing your dish’s taste.
• Not serving immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking. Letting it sit too long can change its creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Marry Me Chickpeas

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chickpeas

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section answers some common questions about Marry Me Chickpeas.

What are Marry Me Chickpeas?

Marry Me Chickpeas are a delightful vegan twist on the classic comfort food, designed to be quick and easy while still delivering rich flavors that everyone will love.

Can I customize my Marry Me Chickpeas?

Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition or swap out spices based on your preferences.

How spicy are Marry Me Chickpeas?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of red chili flakes. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice!

What should I serve with Marry Me Chickpeas?

These chickpeas pair well with crusty bread, rice, or pasta. You can also enjoy them over baked sweet potatoes for a hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chickpeas is an enticing dish that combines simplicity with bold flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings. This recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table!