Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry

Name: Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 teaspoons curry powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Favorites

When it comes to satisfying weekday meals, I often find myself reaching for this vibrant chickpea and spinach curry. It’s quick to prepare, delicious, and packed with nutrients. The combination of spices creates a fragrant aroma that fills my kitchen, making it a delightful dish to share with family or enjoy solo. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those greens! This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to switch out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preference.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:03:34.969Z

My love for chickpeas has led me to experiment with various recipes, and this spinach curry stands out. The creamy texture from the coconut milk pairs beautifully with the spices, creating a dish that's both comforting and vibrant. I've found that using fresh spinach enhances the flavor immensely, and it only takes a few minutes to wilt into the curry.

One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of lemon juice just before serving; it brightens all the flavors and adds a refreshing touch. This curry is perfect over rice or with naan, making it a versatile dinner option that never disappoints!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A nutritious and hearty dish filled with plant-based protein.
Rich flavor from a perfect blend of spices and creamy coconut milk.
Quick and easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The base of this chickpea spinach curry lies in its nutrient-dense ingredients. Chickpeas not only provide plant-based protein but also a satisfying texture that complements the creaminess of coconut milk. This ingredient is crucial in balancing flavors and adding a rich mouthfeel to the dish. When selecting chickpeas, opt for canned ones for convenience, but if you prefer dried, soaking and cooking them beforehand can enhance the flavor, though it does require longer preparation time.

Fresh spinach adds both a burst of color and numerous health benefits, including iron and vitamins A and C. Make sure to use fresh spinach rather than frozen; it wilts beautifully and brightens the dish with its vibrant green hue. If you're out of spinach, kale or Swiss chard can be excellent substitutes, though they might take a bit longer to soften.

Perfecting Your Technique

Sautéing the onions until translucent is key to building a flavorful base. This generally takes about 5 minutes over medium heat; avoid rushing this step to prevent them from becoming bitter. Adding garlic and ginger just before your spices ensures their fragrant oils are released, creating a rich flavor profile. Remember to stir frequently to prevent burning, which can alter the taste of your curry.

When adding spices, make sure to toast them slightly by cooking them for a minute or two while stirring. This process enhances their aroma and flavor, making the dish more vibrant. If you find the curry too thick during simmering, don't hesitate to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to have everything ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your curry:

Cook the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Spices and Chickpeas

Sprinkle in curry powder and ground cumin, stirring well to coat the onions. Add the chickpeas and diced tomatoes, allow to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine with Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Incorporate Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the pot and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the lemon juice just before serving. Enjoy your curry over rice or with naan for a delicious meal!

Relish your homemade curry!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garam masala right before serving. You can also substitute spinach with kale or collard greens if you prefer.

Storage and Meal Prep

This chickpea spinach curry makes an excellent meal prep option. Once cooked, let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so on low heat to prevent separation of the coconut milk, stirring gently until warmed through. If frozen, it's best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, ensuring better texture and flavor retention.

For serving, consider pairing the curry with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You could also top it with a dollop of yogurt or sprinkle with fresh cilantro for added flavor and color. Adjust the level of spice by either adding more curry powder or incorporating a diced chili during cooking, adjusting to your taste.

Variations and Tips

Feel free to customize your curry by adding other vegetables. Bell peppers, sweet potatoes, or even zucchini can enhance the dish. Just make sure to cook them until they are tender before incorporating the spinach, which requires less cooking time. If you're looking for added warmth, consider including a pinch of cayenne pepper or garam masala for extra depth.

For an even creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the chickpeas into the coconut milk before adding it to the pot. This will create a thicker sauce while still providing the hearty chickpea experience. If you're vegan or avoiding coconut, a plant-based yogurt could be used instead, though it may alter the overall flavor profile slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this curry freezes well! Allow it to cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ Is there a vegetarian substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or soy milk, although it will alter the flavor and creaminess.

→ What can I serve with this curry?

This dish pairs beautifully with basmati rice, quinoa, or naan bread.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can be wonderful additions.