Spinach with Chickpeas, Pine Nuts & Raisins Recipe
Introduction
This vibrant spinach dish with chickpeas, pine nuts, and raisins is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. It’s quick to prepare and makes a perfect light meal or side dish with a subtle touch of sweetness and smokiness.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus a drizzle
- 1 large long shallot, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 400g can chickpeas, drained
- 4 tbsp golden or flame raisins
- 200g spinach
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, cooking until softened but not browned, about 3–4 minutes.
- Step 2: Stir in the ground cumin and smoked paprika, then add the drained chickpeas and raisins. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spices and sweetness to infuse.
- Step 3: Add the spinach to the pan and cook until just wilted, stirring frequently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in the toasted pine nuts. Finish with an extra drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Tips & Variations
- If you don’t have pine nuts, use blanched toasted almonds or Spanish smoked almonds for a delicious alternative.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
- Try using baby kale instead of spinach for a heartier texture.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to preserve the texture of the spinach. Avoid microwaving for best results.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, but be sure to soak and cook dried chickpeas fully beforehand, as canned chickpeas are already cooked and save time.
What can I serve with this dish?
This spinach and chickpea mix pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or as a side to grilled meats or fish.
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Spinach with Chickpeas, Pine Nuts & Raisins Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2-3 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and nutritious dish combining tender spinach with hearty chickpeas, sweet golden raisins, and crunchy toasted pine nuts, all infused with warm spices for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired flavor. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Legumes
- 200g spinach
- 400g can chickpeas, drained
- 1 large long shallot, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
Spices & Flavorings
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Nuts & Fruits
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts
- 4 tbsp golden or flame raisins
Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus a drizzle for serving
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat to prepare for sautéing.
- Sauté shallot and garlic: Add the sliced shallot and crushed garlic to the pan, cooking gently until they soften and become fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add spices, chickpeas, and raisins: Stir in ½ teaspoon ground cumin and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, then add the drained chickpeas and golden raisins. Cook with stirring for about 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Wilt the spinach: Tip in the fresh spinach and cook just until it wilts, usually 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine everything evenly.
- Finish with pine nuts and oil: Stir in the toasted pine nuts and drizzle a little more olive oil on top before serving to enhance richness and texture.
Notes
- If pine nuts are unavailable, substitute with blanched toasted almonds or Spanish smoked almonds for a similar nutty crunch.
- This dish works well as a side or light vegetarian main paired with crusty bread or quinoa.
- Use fresh spinach over frozen for best texture and flavor.
- Adjust spices to taste for a milder or spicier profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: spinach, chickpeas, pine nuts, raisins, Mediterranean, vegetarian, quick, healthy, side dish
