Mediterranean Chickpea Casserole with Spinach and Feta
This hearty Mediterranean chickpea casserole is comfort food with a healthy twist. Tender chickpeas, juicy tomatoes, fresh spinach, and creamy feta come together in a rich, flavourful dish. Perfect for dipping crusty bread or pairing with crispy smashed potatoes, it’s an easy, wholesome meal for any time of the week.
Ingredients (Serves 3-4)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
5 large tomatoes (about 800g), diced (preferably coeur de boeuf, ripe or slightly soft)
1 tablespoon tomatoe paste
200g dried chickpeas (soaked overnight and rinsed)
Water, as needed (enough to cover the chickpeas)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 handfuls (about 60g) baby spinach
1-2 block (about 200-300g) feta cheese
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: SAUTÉ THE BASE
1. Heat the olive oil: Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to a large pan over medium heat.
2. Cook garlic and onion: Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
3. Add oregano: Stir in 1 teaspoon dried oregano and let it bloom in the oil for a few seconds.
Step 2: PREPARE THE TOMATO SAUCE
1. Add tomatoes: Toss in the diced tomatoes. Let them cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and starting to break down.
2. Crush the tomatoes: Use your cooking spoon to gently mash the tomatoes into a saucy consistency.
3. Add tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste and mix well to combine it with the tomato sauce.
Step 3: COOK THE CHICKPEAS
1. Add chickpeas and water: Stir in the soaked and rinsed chickpeas. Add enough water to cover them completely.
2. Season and simmer: Season with salt and pepper, stir well, and cover the pan with a lid. Simmer for 35-45 minutes, checking occasionally and adding more water if needed. Cook until the chickpeas are tender but not mushy.
Step 4: FINISH WITH SPINACH AND FETA
1. Add spinach: Stir in 2 handfuls of baby spinach and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
2. Add feta: Place the block of feta on top of the chickpeas. Cover the pan and let it sit for 3-4 minutes until the feta softens slightly.
Step 5: SERVE
1. Season and garnish: Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with freshly cracked pepper.
2. Pair with sides: Serve hot with crunchy bread or smashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
This Mediterranean casserole is all about bold flavours and comforting textures—perfect for dipping, scooping, or simply savouring!
