Marry Me Chickpeas

This one-pan Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is a delightful vegan twist on the popular dish, Marry Me Chicken! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this meal is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. In just 15 minutes, you can create a heartwarming dish that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spices creates a comforting dish bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or even with crusty bread for dipping—there’s something for everyone!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with chickpeas and spinach, this recipe is both healthy and satisfying.
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy all the rich flavors without any animal products, making it perfect for plant-based eaters.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan: Ideal for cooking everything in one place, reducing cleanup time.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Knife: Essential for chopping garlic and sun-dried tomatoes quickly.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for all your chopping needs.

Ingredients

For this delicious Marry Me Chickpeas recipe, gather the following ingredients:

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

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 Flavorful Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients

Now add the drained chickpeas, vegetable broth, tomato paste, vegan cream, and sliced spinach. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes until warmed through and the spinach has wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper as desired.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil and optional grated vegan parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping or on top of cooked rice or pasta. Enjoy!

How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a hearty meal or a light snack, these chickpeas can be adapted to suit your needs.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the chickpeas with slices of fresh, crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.

On Cooked Rice

• Spoon the Marry Me Chickpeas over fluffy cooked rice. This combination creates a filling meal that’s perfect for any time of day.

Tossed with Pasta

• Mix the chickpeas with your favorite pasta. The sauce pairs well with both short and long noodles, making it a comforting option.

Inside a Baked Sweet Potato

• For a nutritious twist, stuff the chickpeas into baked sweet potatoes. This adds sweetness and nutrition to your meal.

Over Quinoa

• Serve on top of quinoa for a protein-packed dish. The nutty flavor of quinoa complements the richness of the chickpeas perfectly.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chickpeas

To make your Marry Me Chickpeas even more delicious, consider these tips for perfection:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and basil to enhance the flavors of the dish.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to modify the red chili flakes based on your heat preference. Add less for milder flavor or more for extra kick.
• Experiment with Cream: Try different types of vegan cream to find your preferred texture and taste. Coconut cream can add a unique flavor.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the mixture to simmer longer lets all flavors meld together beautifully, creating a richer taste.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip garnishing with fresh basil or vegan parmesan; it elevates both presentation and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chickpeas

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chickpeas can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the rich flavors of chickpeas.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad balances out the creaminess and adds crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrients to your plate.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds fiber and green goodness alongside this dish.
5. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with lemon dressing can brighten up your meal.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick stir-fried vegetables add crunch and additional flavors that pair nicely with chickpeas.
7. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb alternative, serve with spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil and herbs.
8. Chickpea Salad: Consider serving alongside a cold chickpea salad for an added protein boost!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make common mistakes when preparing Marry Me Chickpeas. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect.

• Using stale chickpeas: Always use fresh or properly stored canned chickpeas for the best texture. Rinse them well before cooking.
• Overcooking the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly. Cook it just until fragrant to maintain its flavor without bitterness.
• Skipping the simmer: Allowing the dish to simmer helps meld the flavors. Don’t rush this step; five minutes makes a difference!
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: After cooking, taste your dish and adjust the seasonings like salt and pepper for a balanced flavor.
• Not adding enough greens: Baby spinach adds nutrition and color. Feel free to add more or substitute with other greens based on your preference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Marry Me Chickpeas

• Freeze in a well-sealed container for up to 3 months.
• Portion into smaller servings for easy thawing later.

Reheating Marry Me Chickpeas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for about 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Marry Me Chickpeas?

Marry Me Chickpeas is a vegan twist on the popular Marry Me Chicken dish, featuring chickpeas cooked in a creamy sauce with spices and vegetables.

How long does it take to prepare Marry Me Chickpeas?

This delicious recipe takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick meals.

Can I customize my Marry Me Chickpeas?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or switch out the vegan cream for coconut milk for a unique flavor profile.

Are Marry Me Chickpeas gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chickpeas is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. With possibilities for customization, you can make this dish your own. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Try it today and enjoy its delightful flavors!