Weeknight • Vegetarian

Speedy Saucy Chickpea Bowls

These flavorful bowls feature protein-packed chickpeas simmered in a rich tomato sauce, perfect over rice or quinoa for a quick meal.

Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Servings
4
Level
Weeknight
Speedy Saucy Chickpea Bowls

When hunger strikes and you need something satisfying, healthy, and fast, these Speedy Saucy Chickpea Bowls are your culinary salvation. Bursting with flavor from a rich, savory tomato sauce and tender chickpeas, they come together in a flash. Serve them over your favorite grain for a complete and delicious meal!

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp dried cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Stir in minced garlic, dried cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Step 3

    Add diced tomatoes (with their juices), rinsed chickpeas, and vegetable broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.

  4. Step 4

    Stir in baby spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until wilted. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

  5. Step 5

    Serve the saucy chickpeas hot over cooked rice or quinoa. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Tips

  • Add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream when serving for extra creaminess and a cooling contrast.
  • For a sweeter note, a pinch of brown sugar can be added to the sauce.
  • This recipe is fantastic for meal prep; simply store the chickpea mixture separately from the cooked grain and combine when ready to eat.

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