Creamy Spiced Chickpea and Spinach Skillet

A quick, satisfying, creamy one-pan meal balancing earthy chickpeas and fresh spinach with a warm spice blend — ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Cumin Powder
  • 1 tsp Coriander Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 can (400g) Chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 150g fresh Spinach
  • 120g Light Crème Fraîche (or more to taste)
  • Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander and smoked paprika. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add drained chickpeas with 2–3 tbsp of water. Stir to coat in spices and heat through for 3–4 minutes.
  4. Add spinach in batches, stirring until fully wilted.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in crème fraîche until a creamy sauce forms.
  6. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Add a fried or poached egg on top for extra protein and a richer meal.
  • Use full-fat crème fraîche if you prefer a richer sauce — both versions work well.
  • Pairs nicely with a slice of whole wheat bread to scoop up the sauce.

Variations

  • Stir in a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Add roasted red peppers for sweetness and colour.
  • Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a more robust texture.
  • Add a pinch of turmeric for extra anti-inflammatory benefit and a golden colour.
  • Top with crumbled feta instead of crème fraîche for a tangier finish.
  • Toss in halloumi cubes pan-fried separately for added protein and bite.

Why This Meal Is Good for You

Chickpeas are rich in plant-based protein and soluble fibre, which slows glucose absorption and supports steady blood sugar — ideal for long-term metabolic health and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Spinach is packed with magnesium, folate and lutein, supporting heart health, bone density and eye protection. Its antioxidants also contribute to cancer prevention, particularly of the digestive tract.

Cumin and coriander have well-documented anti-inflammatory properties and support healthy digestion. Smoked paprika contains capsanthin, a carotenoid linked to skin protection and cellular health.

Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and polyphenols associated with reduced inflammation and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Overall, this is a light, nutrient-dense meal with a low glycaemic load — excellent for sustained energy, gut health and long-term wellbeing.