Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry

Name: Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Cooked rice or quinoa for serving

Highlighted under: Natural Meals

I love whipping up this Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry when I'm looking for something comforting yet nutritious. The combination of tender chickpeas and vibrant spinach not only makes for a beautiful dish, but it's also packed with protein and fiber. This curry is quick to prepare, which is perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, with warming spices and creamy coconut milk, it brings a satisfying flavor to the table that even my picky eaters enjoy. It's a delicious way to ensure we're all getting some healthy goodness.

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:57:34.741Z

When I first made this Chickpea Spinach Curry, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The combination of spices like cumin and coriander adds depth, while the creamy coconut milk balances the heat perfectly. By incorporating spinach, I've managed to sneak in some greens that even the kids love. I also like to serve it over steaming jasmine rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.

One of the best parts of this curry is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your palate. If you want an extra kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha. Leftovers are just as tasty the next day, making this dish a fantastic meal prep option for those hectic weeks!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious and hearty without compromising on flavor
Quick weeknight meal that comes together in under 40 minutes
Versatile recipe that accommodates various dietary needs

Understanding the Ingredients

Chickpeas are the star ingredient in this Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry. They not only add great texture but are also a powerhouse of protein and fiber. If you're in a rush or want to save on prep time, you can use canned chickpeas. Just be sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove excess salt and preserve their natural flavor. Should you prefer fresh chickpeas, soak and cook them beforehand, adjusting the cooking time in your curry accordingly.

Spinach is another essential component that provides a vibrant color and a nutritional boost. Fresh spinach wilts down significantly, so don't be alarmed if it seems like a lot at first. For a change, you could replace fresh spinach with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard, adjusting the cooking time to ensure they properly wilt and integrate into the dish. This flexibility allows you to use whatever greens you have on hand.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When sautéing the aromatics, keep an eye on the heat level. Medium heat is ideal to allow the onions to soften without browning, which could lead to a bitter flavor in your curry. Aim for a translucent onion, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Once you add the garlic and ginger, stir frequently; they cook quickly and can burn in just a minute or two. The fragrant aroma when they're properly cooked will be your cue that it's time to move on to the spices.

To maximize the flavor from your spices, ensure they are fresh. Sprinkle them in after sautéing the aromatics and let them toast for about a minute. This cooking process releases essential oils, enhancing their pungency. If you're unsure, you can test spice freshness by rubbing a pinch between your fingers: it should smell robust. If your spices seem weakened, it might be best to replace them for the best flavor impact in your curry.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Cooked rice or quinoa for serving

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

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

Add Spices

Sprinkle in the curry powder, cumin, and coriander, stirring well to coat the onions. Cook the spices for about 1 minute to release their flavors.

Combine Chickpeas and Coconut Milk

Add the chickpeas to the pan followed by the coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

Add Spinach

Once simmering, gently fold in the chopped spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and is incorporated into the curry, about 3-5 minutes.

Season and Serve

Season the curry with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm over rice or quinoa, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, consider topping with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving. This curry is also great with a dollop of yogurt or served alongside naan.

Storage Tips

Leftover curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to maintain creaminess. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can change the texture of the coconut milk.

For longer storage, consider freezing the curry. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. This can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop; you may need to adjust the consistency with a bit of water or coconut milk during reheating.

Serving Variations

To elevate your Chickpea Spinach Curry, consider serving it with a side of flaky naan or crispy papadums for added texture. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or mint over the top just before serving. Adding a drizzle of lime juice can also brighten the dish significantly, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

You can customize this curry even further by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or sweet potatoes during the stir-frying step. Just ensure that any additional vegetables are prepped into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly. This not only enhances the nutrition but also adds colorful visual appeal to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the curry.

→ Is this curry vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan.

→ How can I make this curry spicier?

To increase the spice level, add some chopped chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper during the cooking process.

→ Can I make this curry ahead of time?

Yes, this curry stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.