Healthy Chickpea Spinach Curry

Name: Healthy Chickpea Spinach Curry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated; 1 can coconut milk (400ml); 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I'm excited to share my Healthy Chickpea Spinach Curry recipe with you! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients. I love how the tender chickpeas and fresh spinach come together to create a comforting meal that's both satisfying and healthy. With just a few spices and ingredients, I can whip this up in under thirty minutes. It's the perfect weeknight dinner when I'm short on time but still want something that's delicious and wholesome.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:49:22.386Z

When I first tried making chickpea curry, I was amazed at how simple and flavorful it could be. The combination of chickpeas, spinach, and a few spices transformed into a dish that felt both nourishing and indulgent. I learned that soaking the chickpeas overnight adds depth to their texture, making them even more delightful.

One tip that really takes this recipe to the next level is using fresh ginger and garlic. Their aromatic qualities energize the dish, giving it a harmonious blend of flavors. I've also discovered that a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the entire dish, making each bite tantalizingly fresh.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Wholesome ingredients that nourish your body
Vibrant colors and flavors that brighten any meal
Quick cooking time perfect for busy weekdays

      

Understanding Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Healthy Chickpea Spinach Curry has a specific role that contributes to the overall flavor and nutrition of the dish. Chickpeas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, providing a hearty base that ensures the curry is filling. The fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color but is also loaded with iron and vitamins A, C, and K. When wilted, the spinach melds beautifully with the spices, enhancing the curry's flavor profile.

The coconut milk brings a rich creaminess to this dish, balancing the spices and giving the curry a luscious texture. Always opt for full-fat coconut milk for the best mouthfeel—this can make the curry feel indulgent without compromising health benefits. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can substitute half of the coconut milk with vegetable broth for a lighter version while still retaining some creaminess.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion until it’s translucent is a key first step; this method emphasizes the sweetness of the onions, which forms a flavorful base for the dish. Pay attention to the heat during this process, as cooking too quickly can lead to browning instead of softening. If your garlic and ginger burn, the dish may develop a bitter taste, so keep the heat medium and stir frequently until fragrant.

Adding the spices before the chickpeas helps to bloom their flavors, elevating the overall taste. Be sure to coat the chickpeas well with the spices and allow them to cook for several minutes, which enhances their flavor. If you find the mixture too dry during this step, a splash of water can help create a better consistency before the addition of coconut milk.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This curry pairs beautifully with a side of jasmine or basmati rice, which helps to soak up the creamy sauce. If you're looking for a low-carb option, consider serving it with cauliflower rice for a lighter meal. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, topping the curry with toasted nuts or seeds, such as cashews or pumpkin seeds, can add texture and a delightful contrasting flavor.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce, and warm it gently on the stovetop—this keeps the spinach vibrant and avoids overcooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful experience:

Main Ingredients

2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
1 can coconut milk (400ml)
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Juice of 1 lemon

These ingredients will combine to create an inviting aroma in your kitchen!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Healthy Chickpea Spinach Curry:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Spices and Chickpeas

Sprinkle in the curry powder and cumin, stirring well to coat the onions. Add the drained chickpeas and stir to combine, letting everything cook together for another 3-4 minutes.

Incorporate Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk, stirring until everything is well combined. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Finish with Spinach

Add the chopped spinach, stirring gently until it wilts. Season with salt, pepper, and the lemon juice to taste. Allow to cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve Hot

Remove from heat and serve your curry hot, alongside rice or naan bread.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat. This dish also freezes well, so make a double batch for future meals.

Nutritional Benefits

This Healthy Chickpea Spinach Curry is not just satisfying; it's packed with nutrients that are beneficial for overall health. The chickpeas are an excellent source of fiber and protein, which aids in digestion and keeps hunger at bay. Spinach adds a wealth of vitamins while also being low in calories, making this dish a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.

Coconut milk contributes healthy fats that your body needs, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known for their potential health benefits. Together, these ingredients create a well-balanced meal that provides energy while also meeting your daily nutrient goals.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize this recipe based on what you have available or your personal preferences. For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when you sauté the aromatics. If you're in the mood for something a bit different, you can swap in kale or Swiss chard for the spinach, which also provides a nutritious punch.

Incorporating other vegetables like sweet potatoes or bell peppers can also enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly; heartier vegetables may need longer to soften, so add them alongside the chickpeas.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?

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

→ Is this curry vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a delicious vegan option.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini would make great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.