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 chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 can coconut milk; 2 tablespoons curry powder; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love whipping up this Healthy Dinner Chickpea Spinach Curry! It’s not just packed with vibrant flavors, but it’s also incredibly nourishing and satisfying. The combination of chickpeas and spinach creates a hearty dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners, bringing the comfort of a warm curry straight to the table. I relish each bite, knowing that I’m indulging in something wholesome and delicious, making this a go-to recipe for my family and me.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:13:12.209Z

Preparing this curry has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how quickly the flavors blended together. Using fresh spices and ingredients made a significant difference, elevating the dish beyond typical curry recipes.

I remember using coconut milk as the base, giving it a rich, creamy texture that just pairs beautifully with the chickpeas and spinach. This method enhances the overall taste, making it a delightful meal to enjoy on a busy weeknight.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious chickpeas loaded with protein and fiber
Fresh spinach that adds vibrant color and nutrients
A delightful blend of spices for a satisfying aroma

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The chickpeas are the backbone of this curry, offering a hearty texture and a boost of protein and fiber. They also help to create a thick and creamy consistency when simmered in the coconut milk. If you're using dried chickpeas, be sure to soak and cook them beforehand, as canned versions provide a quick and convenient option for a weeknight meal.

Spinach not only adds a nutrient-rich punch but also contributes a lovely color to the dish. Opt for fresh spinach as it wilts down beautifully and retains more nutrients compared to frozen varieties. If using frozen spinach, allow it to thaw and drain excess liquid to prevent the curry from becoming too watery.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When sautéing the aromatics, be mindful not to rush this step. Cooking the onion until it's translucent and fragrant ensures that the base of your curry is rich in flavor. A medium heat allows for even cooking, while stirring occasionally prevents burning. If your garlic and ginger start browning, reduce the heat to avoid bitterness.

Simmering the curry after adding the coconut milk is key to melding the flavors. Allow it to simmer gently for about 10 minutes; this gives the spices time to fully infuse into the chickpeas and sauce. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, especially if you notice the mixture thickening too much.

Ingredients

For the Curry

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 can coconut milk
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Combine Ingredients

Add the chickpeas, curry powder, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to coat the chickpeas with the spices, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Add Coconut Milk and Spinach

Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Fold in the chopped spinach, allowing it to wilt and integrate into the curry for about 5 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Once the curry has thickened slightly, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with rice or flatbread, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing the curry with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Chickpea Spinach Curry is great for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, which allows the flavors to meld even further. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for storage.

If you're planning to freeze the curry, do so in a freezer-safe container without any rice or bread to prevent texture changes. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize the spices according to your preference. If you enjoy heat, consider adding a diced chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne when cooking the aromatics. For a deeper flavor profile, some might enjoy including a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of lime juice just before serving.

Serve the curry over fluffy basmati rice or alongside warm naan for an authentic experience. Add a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the curry. This dish pairs wonderfully with yogurt or raita to enhance the flavors even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works perfectly! Just thaw and drain it before adding.

→ What can I serve with this curry?

This curry pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or naan bread.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

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

→ Can I spice it up?

Definitely! Add fresh chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.