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- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 red onion, diced - 1 bell pepper (any color), diced - 1 medium zucchini, sliced - 2 cups fresh spinach - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Crumbled feta cheese (optional) - Juice of 1 lemon

One-Skillet Mediterranean Chickpea Bowl

Discover the vibrant One-Skillet Mediterranean Chickpea Bowl, a delicious and nutritious dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to your home. Easy to prepare in just one skillet, this meal features protein-packed chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, making it perfect for a quick dinner or satisfying lunch. Enjoy a blend of flavors, health benefits, and minimal cleanup—ideal for busy lifestyles. Dive into this recipe and savor the taste of the Mediterranean!

Ingredients
  

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 small red onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 medium zucchini, chopped into half-moons

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

1 cup cooked quinoa or couscous

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1 cup fresh spinach or arugula

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Juice of 1 lemon

Feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

Heat the Skillet: Begin by placing a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the extra virgin olive oil and allow it to warm for about 30 seconds.

    Sauté Vegetables: Introduce the diced red onion to the skillet, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant.

      Add Peppers and Zucchini: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and chopped zucchini. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender and vibrant.

        Add Chickpeas and Quinoa: Gently mix in the rinsed chickpeas and the cooked quinoa or couscous. Stir everything together thoroughly, allowing it to heat through for about 3-4 minutes.

          Incorporate Fresh Ingredients: Slowly fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, and fresh spinach or arugula. Allow the mixture to warm for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the greens wilt slightly.

            Finish with Herbs and Lemon: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped parsley and freshly squeezed lemon juice, mixing well. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

              Serve: Spoon the Mediterranean chickpea bowl into serving bowls. If desired, top each bowl with crumbled feta cheese for a delightful finish. Serve warm and enjoy!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

                  Presentation Tips: For an inviting look, serve the bowl with a sprinkle of additional parsley and a wedge of lemon on the side. Consider using vibrant bowls to highlight the colorful ingredients!