Cumin-Crusted Chickpea and Spinach Casserole
This cumin-crusted chickpea and spinach casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal. The chickpeas are coated in a flavorful blend of cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper, and then baked until golden brown and crispy. The spinach is added at the end of the cooking process, which wilts it slightly and adds a pop of color and nutrition. Serve this casserole hot with your favorite sides.
This recipe was inspired by a dish that I had at a restaurant in the Middle East. I was so impressed by the combination of flavors and textures that I knew I had to recreate it at home. After a few rounds of experimentation, I came up with this recipe, which is a faithful adaptation of the original. I've made a few minor changes to the original recipe, such as adding spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. But the overall flavors and textures are the same. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!
Cumin-Crusted Chickpea and Spinach Casserole Cumin-Crusted Chickpea and Spinach Casserole Cumin-Crusted Chickpea and Spinach Casserole Cumin-Crusted Chickpea and Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 35 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Drain the chickpeas and rinse well.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  5. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the chickpeas are golden brown and crispy.
  6. Remove from the oven and stir in the spinach.
  7. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.
  8. Serve hot.
Why It Works
  • The combination of cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper is a classic flavor combination that works well with chickpeas.
  • Baking the chickpeas until golden brown and crispy gives them a delicious texture.
  • Adding spinach at the end of the cooking process wilts it slightly and adds a pop of color and nutrition.
  • This casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal.