Healthy Chickpea and Spinach Stew

This Healthy Chickpea and Spinach Stew is a nutrient-packed, vegan-friendly dish featuring protein-rich chickpeas, fresh spinach, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option.

Ingredients:

• For the Stew:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of half a lemon
• For Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges
  • Crusty bread (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add chopped onion and cook for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent.
   • Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Stew:
   • Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
   • Let the stew cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors combine and the broth thickens slightly.
3. Add Spinach:
   • Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
   • Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance flavor.
4. Serve:
   • Divide the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges and crusty bread if desired.

Tips:

• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for variety.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of coconut milk before serving.

For more delicious recipes, you can visit the Healthy Recipes category.

FAQ:

Q: Can I store leftovers? A: Yes! Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: Is this stew gluten-free? A: Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free.

Q: Can I add more vegetables? A: Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini are great additions to this stew.