The Mediterranean Chickpea Casserole is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The creamy chickpeas, tender spinach, tangy tomato sauce, and salty feta all come together in a harmonious symphony. The first time I tried this dish, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients could create such a rich and satisfying meal. The combination of spices adds just the right amount of heat and depth, making this casserole a comfort food that’s both hearty and healthy.
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Mediterranean Chickpea Casserole
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Mediterranean Chickpea Casserole
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium red onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 400 g (14 oz can) tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ¼ teaspoon 5 spice mix
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
- 400 g (14 oz) can chickpeas, drained
- 3 cups fresh spinach packed
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- crumbled feta
- chopped parsley for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet. Saute onions for 2-3 minutes. Add in chickpeas and garlic, mix for 30 seconds. Season with oregano, 5 spice mix and chili flakes.3 tablespoon olive oil, 1 medium red onion, 2 garlic cloves, ¼ teaspoon 5 spice mix, 400 g (14 oz) can chickpeas, drained, ½ teaspoon chili flakes
- Stir in fresh spinach leaves and mix until wilted. Season with salt, sugar and pepper.3 cups fresh spinach, 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Pour in tomato sauce and chicken stock and cook for 10 minutes after boiling.400 g (14 oz can) tomato sauce, 1 cup chicken stock
- Top with crumbled feta and broil for 5 minutes. Sprinkle parsley on top.crumbled feta, chopped parsley for serving
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium red onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 400 g (14 oz can) tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ¼ teaspoon 5 spice mix
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
- 400 g (14 oz can) canned chickpeas, drained
- 3 cups fresh spinach, packed
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- crumbled feta, chopped parsley for serving
🔪How Do I Make This?
Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet. Saute onions for 2-3 minutes. Add in chickpeas and garlic, mix for 30 seconds. Season with oregano, 5 spice mix and chili flakes.
Stir in fresh spinach leaves and mix until wilted. Season with salt, sugar and pepper.
Pour in tomato sauce and chicken stock and cook for 10 minutes after boiling.
Top with crumbled feta and broil for 5 minutes. Sprinkle parsley on top.
🍽What Do I Serve With It?
The Mediterranean Chickpea Casserole is quite versatile when it comes to side dishes. Here are some options to consider:
Warm Pita Bread
A slice of warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up the saucy goodness of the casserole. It adds a nice chewy texture that complements the dish well.
Fresh Green Salad
A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the casserole. Try adding cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions for a Mediterranean twist.
Quinoa or Rice
For a more filling meal, serve the casserole over a bed of quinoa or rice. Both options absorb the flavorful sauce, making each bite even more delightful.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Use Fresh Ingredients
Whenever possible, use fresh spinach and freshly chopped parsley. Fresh herbs and greens elevate the flavor and nutritional value of your dish.
Don’t Skimp on the Spices
The 5 spice mix and chili flakes are crucial for adding depth to the casserole. Feel free to adjust the quantities to suit your taste, but don’t leave them out.
Experiment with Add-Ins
Feel adventurous? Try adding roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or olives to the casserole. These additions can bring in more layers of flavor and make the dish your own.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock and skip the feta cheese. You can use a vegan cheese alternative if you like. I have found that Follow Your Heart brand vegan feta is my favorite - but be sure to try different brands to discover your favorite.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the simmering step, then cool and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stove and proceed with the broiling step.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you enjoyed the Mediterranean Chickpea Casserole, you'll love experimenting with these other delicious casserole recipes. Each one offers a unique flavor profile and is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
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