This Mediterranean Spinach and Chickpea Stew is a quick one pot meal packed with protein, fiber, and rich Mediterranean flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s hearty, comforting, and comes together in just 30 minutes for a wholesome dinner everyone will love.
2canschickpeas15 oz / 400 g each can - drained and rinseds
2cupschicken brothor vegetable broth
1poundspinachfresh or frozen
¾teaspoonsalt+ black pepper to taste
2tablespoonslemon juice
2tablespoonsnutsfor garnish - such as pine nuts, walnuts, almonds, pistachios, etc
4dollopsGreek yogurtfor serving + rice or crusty bread
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 large onion (chopped) and cook for about 3 minutes until soft. Stir in 3 cloves garlic (grated), 1 teaspoon ground coriander, and 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Chickpeas and Broth: Add 2 cans chickpeas, 2 cups chicken broth, ¾ teaspoon salt, and pepper.
Add the Spinach: Add 1 pound spinach a handful at a time, letting it wilt before adding more. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring now and then. Add 2 tablespoons lemon juice and taste to adjust seasoning.
Serve and Enjoy: Spoon into bowls and top with toasted nuts and a little Greek yogurt. Serve warm with rice or crusty bread.
Notes
Substitutions
Olive oil → Avocado oil or light olive oil
Onion → Shallots or leeks for a milder flavor
Garlic → Garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic
Cumin → Smoked paprika or turmeric for a twist
Coriander → Ground fennel or curry powder
Chickpeas → White beans or lentils for a different texture
Spinach → Frozen spinach or kale (squeeze out extra water)
Chicken broth → Vegetable broth or bouillon powder dissolved in water for easy storage
Salt and pepper → Adjust to taste depending on your broth
Lemon juice → White wine vinegar or preserved lemon
Nuts for garnish → Almonds, pine nuts, pistachios, or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin
Greek yogurt → Low-fat Greek yogurt, Skyr, or dairy-free yogurt
Tips
Sauté slowly: Let the onion and garlic cook gently for deep, rich flavor.
Toast your spices: Warm cumin and coriander in the oil to release their aroma.
Use bouillon powder for broth: Dissolve it in water to save space and keep groceries lighter.
Don’t skip the lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens and balances the creamy chickpeas.
Make it ahead: The flavors blend beautifully and taste even better the next day.
Serve it your way: Pair with rice, couscous, or warm pita for a cozy Mediterranean dinner.
StorageStore leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.