We love chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, for their great nutty flavor and their versatility. This particular dish is a favorite; it’s super easy to adapt and can be eaten hot or cold, alone or on top of steamed rice or noodles.
kitchen gear
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Cutting board
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Sharp knife (adult needed)
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Strainer or colander
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Measuring spoons
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Medium-sized skillet
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Can opener
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Heatproof spatula
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Pot holders
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil
- 1 small onion, peeled and chopped
- 1 carrot, scrubbed and diced
- 1 celery rib, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced (or 1 teaspoons garlic powder)
- 1 (15-ounce) can low-sodium chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1⁄4 cup water
- 1 (6-ounce) bag baby spinach leaves (about 2 cups)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (any kind), or lemon or lime juice
- 1⁄4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
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Put the skillet on the stove and turn the heat to medium. When the skillet is hot, add the oil.
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Add the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic (if you’re using fresh) and cook until the onion is soft and golden, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the mixture starts to stick, add 1-2 tablespoons water.
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Add the chickpeas and water and cook 5 minutes. (If you’re using garlic powder, add it now).
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Remove the skillet from the stove, add the spinach and stir until wilted. Add the vinegar and salt. Now taste the chickpeas. Do they need an extra squeeze of lemon or a pinch of salt? If so, add it and then taste again.
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Serve right away, or cover and refrigerate up to 2 days. Serve hot, cold, or at room temperature.
Notes
FANCY THAT!
Make it Spicy: Add teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or 1 tablespoon hot sauce when you add the vinegar.
Make it Cheesy: Add 1⁄4 cup crumbled feta or grated Parmesan cheese when you add the vinegar.
