Imagine a dish that combines the earthy richness of chickpeas with the vibrant, emerald-green freshness of spinach, all dancing together in a symphony of Spanish flavors. Espinacas Salteadas con Garbanzos is not just a side dish – it's a quick, nutritious, and absolutely mouthwatering experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Spain. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a meal so delicious, your family and friends will be begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups spinach, fresh
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing the spinach thoroughly, draining and rinsing the chickpeas, and finely mincing the garlic cloves.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to become shimmering hot but not smoking.
- Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté quickly for about 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant and slightly golden.
- Add the drained chickpeas to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating and light browning.
- Gradually add the fresh spinach to the pan, allowing it to wilt down. Stir gently to combine the spinach with the chickpeas and garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, continuing to stir and cook until the spinach is completely wilted and tender, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnishing with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for additional flavor.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use crisp, vibrant spinach and high-quality canned chickpeas for the best flavor and texture.
- Control Your Heat: When sautéing garlic, watch carefully to prevent burning. The goal is a golden, fragrant base for your dish.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Add spinach gradually to ensure it wilts evenly and doesn't become soggy.
- Season Thoughtfully: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Optional Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for an extra flavor dimension.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan, to maintain the perfect texture of the spinach and chickpeas.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
