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Mediterranean cuisine is celebrated not only for its vibrant flavors but also for its numerous health benefits. Rich in fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and whole grains, this style of cooking promotes a well-balanced diet that can enhance overall wellness. Among the many delightful dishes, the Quick Skillet Mediterranean Chickpea Stew stands out as a wholesome, easy-to-make option that brings the essence of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen.

Quick Skillet Mediterranean Chickpea Stew

Warm up your spring meals with this Quick Skillet Mediterranean Chickpea Stew. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a delightful brunch, this dish is packed with vibrant veggies and hearty chickpeas, creating a creamy and comforting experience. Ready in just 30 minutes, its a nutritious option thats both satisfying and delicious. Gather your ingredients and try it tonight—your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients
  

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium red bell pepper, diced

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)

1 lemon, juiced

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and warm it over medium heat until it shimmers.

    Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic, stirring for an additional 1 minute until it's fragrant.

      Cook Vegetables: Incorporate the diced red bell pepper and zucchini into the skillet. Sauté these vegetables for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and vibrant in color.

        Add Chickpeas and Tomatoes: Stir in the rinsed chickpeas along with the diced tomatoes (including their juices). Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Season generously with salt and pepper, and mix all the ingredients evenly.

          Simmer: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Once it’s simmering, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

            Add Greens: Gently fold in the fresh spinach (or kale) and cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the greens are wilted and merged with the stew.

              Finish with Lemon: Remove the skillet from heat. Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the stew, stirring well to blend the zesty flavor in.

                Serve: Ladle generous portions of the stew into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese if you like a creamy touch.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                    15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

                      Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the stew in vibrant bowls with a sprinkle of extra parsley on top and a slice of lemon on the side for a pop of color. Enjoy your comforting Mediterranean adventure!