Creating this flavorful and nutritious bowl is incredibly easy and quick. Follow these simple steps to bring it to life in your kitchen:

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

Begin by prepping your vegetables. Peel and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves. Having these aromatics ready to go will streamline the cooking process and ensure a smooth flow. Good prep work is key to efficient cooking, especially on busy weeknights. Take a moment to appreciate the fresh scents of the onion and garlic as you chop them – it’s the start of something delicious!

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Place a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for a few seconds until it shimmers. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Sautéing the onion first releases its natural sweetness and lays the foundation for the flavor profile of the dish. Once the onion is softened, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma of sautéing garlic is truly irresistible and a sign that you’re on the right track!

Step 3: Add Spices and Chickpeas

Now it’s time to infuse the dish with warm, earthy spices. Add the ground cumin, turmeric powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine and cook for about 30 seconds to a minute, until the spices become fragrant. This process, known as “blooming” the spices, helps to release their full flavor potential and deepen their aroma. Next, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet. Rinsing the chickpeas removes any excess starch and sodium from the canning liquid. Stir to coat the chickpeas evenly with the spice mixture. Cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the chickpeas to warm through and absorb the flavors of the spices.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, a handful at a time. It might seem like a lot of spinach, but don’t worry, it will wilt down significantly as it cooks. Stir continuously as you add the spinach, allowing each batch to wilt before adding more. As the spinach wilts, it will release moisture and reduce in volume. Continue stirring until all the spinach is wilted and tender, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Avoid overcooking the spinach, as it can become mushy. You want it to be tender but still retain some of its vibrant green color.

Step 5: Simmer and Finish

Pour in the vegetable broth to the skillet. This will create a light sauce and bring all the elements together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. Simmering also helps to thicken the sauce slightly and create a more cohesive dish. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed – this is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance. Finally, stir in the fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice adds a bright, acidic touch that elevates the flavors of the bowl and balances the richness of the spices and chickpeas.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Your Savory Chickpea & Spinach Bowl is now ready to be served! Ladle generous portions into bowls and add your desired toppings. Some delicious options include a dollop of creamy yogurt (dairy or plant-based), toasted nuts for crunch, fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a salty, tangy element (if not keeping it vegan). A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over the top can also add a final touch of richness a