Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chickpeas Recipe

Ever had a dish so good you wanted to lick the bowl? Yeah, this is that kind of meal. Creamy, dreamy, and packed with sun-dried tomato magic.

I threw this together one night, and wow—instant favorite! The chickpeas soak up all that rich, garlicky, tangy goodness. And the creaminess? Oh, it’s next-level.

It’s cozy, filling, and—bonus—super easy to make. Perfect for lazy nights, but fancy enough for guests. Plus, it’s packed with plant-based protein.

Grab your chickpeas, some sun-dried tomatoes, and let’s make something amazing. You won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Healthy, Flavorful Dish: Packed with the goodness of chickpeas and the creamy richness of coconut milk, this recipe is not only delicious but also full of nutrients.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need a comforting meal without all the fuss.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch, and you’ll have leftovers that are just as tasty the next day. This recipe stores well and can easily be reheated.
• Customizable: Whether you want to add some greens, throw in extra spices, or top it with cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan twist), this dish is versatile enough to make your own.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and smoked paprika gives this dish an amazing depth of flavor, while the coconut milk brings everything together into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Key Ingredients for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chickpeas

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a quick look at the key ingredients you’ll need to bring this dish to life. The best part? Most of them are pantry staples, so you likely already have them in your kitchen!

For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chickpeas:

• Olive Oil: This will help sauté the onion and garlic to get that base flavor started.
• Small Onion: Chopped finely, it adds a mild sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Garlic: Minced, of course! Garlic brings that wonderful, aromatic essence to this dish.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: These are packed with concentrated flavor and are the star ingredient here, adding that unique umami punch.
• Chickpeas: The creamy, nutty base of this dish. You’ll want them drained and rinsed before using.
• Full-Fat Coconut Milk: This adds that creamy richness to the dish. You can use light coconut milk if you prefer a lighter version.
• Tomato Paste: For an extra layer of tomato flavor that blends seamlessly into the sauce.
• Dried Oregano: The perfect herb to complement the sun-dried tomatoes and bring a Mediterranean flavor to the dish.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a smokey depth that enhances the richness of the coconut milk and tomatoes.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): If you like a little heat, this is the perfect addition to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course – seasoning is key to bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil (for garnish): A little green freshens up the dish and adds a pop of color.

Optional Additions:

• Grated Parmesan or Nutritional Yeast: If you want a cheesy twist, Parmesan is a great option. For a vegan option, nutritional yeast is an excellent choice, adding a savory, cheese-like flavor.
• Fresh Spinach or Kale: Stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking for added texture, color, and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s get into the cooking process. These steps are simple and straightforward, and the results are absolutely delicious. Follow along, and you’ll have this creamy, savory dish ready in no time.

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step builds the base flavor for your dish.

Next, add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – it should just soften and release its aroma.

Step 2: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spices

Once the garlic is fragrant, add in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir to combine. Let them cook for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Now, add the dried oregano, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. The sun-dried tomatoes will start to break down a bit, and the spices will begin to release their flavors into the oil.

Step 3: Incorporate Coconut Milk and Tomato Paste

Time to bring everything together! Stir in the coconut milk and tomato paste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

Step 4: Add Chickpeas and Simmer

Once the sauce has thickened, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pan. Stir them into the sauce, making sure they’re well coated. Let the chickpeas simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soak up all the delicious flavors. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Add Fresh Greens (Optional)

If you’re adding spinach or kale, now is the time to do it. Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from the heat and garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This adds a nice, fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve your creamy sun-dried tomato chickpeas on their own, or over rice, quinoa, or a bed of greens for a complete meal.

Variations for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chickpeas

Now that you know the basics, feel free to get creative! This recipe is versatile, so here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Add More Veggies: You can easily add more vegetables to this dish. Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the pan along with the onions and garlic.
• Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, add extra red pepper flakes or even a chopped jalapeño to the dish. For a smoky heat, a dash of chipotle chili powder works beautifully.
• Use Different Beans: While chickpeas are the star of this recipe, you can swap them out for other beans like cannellini beans, butter beans, or lentils for a different texture and flavor.
• Add a Protein: If you’re looking to add more protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would pair wonderfully with the creamy chickpeas. Simply cook the protein separately and serve it alongside or over the chickpeas.
• Cheesy Twist: For those who enjoy cheesy dishes, sprinkle some grated Parmesan over the top just before serving. Alternatively, nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option to add that cheesy, savory flavor.
• Make It Lighter: If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can use light coconut milk instead of full-fat coconut milk. You could also cut back on the oil or use vegetable broth for sautéing the onions and garlic.

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chickpeas

This creamy, savory dish is incredibly versatile, so there are plenty of ways to serve it. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or using it as a hearty side, here are some great options:

• Serve Over Rice: A simple side of rice – whether it’s white, brown, or quinoa – is a great base for this dish. The creamy sauce soaks into the grains, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
• In a Grain Bowl: If you’re looking for a hearty grain bowl, serve the chickpeas on a bed of quinoa, farro, or couscous. Add roasted vegetables or fresh greens to make it a full meal.
• With Pasta: For a fun twist, toss this creamy chickpea mixture with your favorite pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine work well). You’ll have a creamy, tomatoey pasta dish that’s packed with plant-based protein.
• On Top of a Salad: Spoon the creamy sun-dried tomato chickpeas over a fresh salad for a filling lunch or dinner. Add a drizzle of olive oil and lemon for a refreshing touch.
• With Flatbreads or Naan: Serve it with warm, soft naan or any kind of flatbread for a dipping experience. The creamy sauce is perfect for soaking up with bread!
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair it with roasted veggies like cauliflower, broccoli, or sweet potatoes for an extra nutrient boost.

Storing Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chickpeas

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), here’s how to store and reheat the dish:

• Storing Leftovers: Allow the chickpeas to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to meld and develop, so it’s even better the next day!
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Be sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it up in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of coconut milk or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

While the nutritional values can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used, here’s a rough estimate for one serving of creamy sun-dried tomato chickpeas:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	10g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	10g
Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	14g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	400mg
Sugar	5g
Vitamin A	15% DV
Vitamin C	25% DV
Calcium	8% DV
Iron	15% DV

Conclusion: A Flavorful, Easy Dish You’ll Make Over and Over Again

There you have it – a simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chickpeas. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something quick, satisfying, and full of taste. Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with your favorite sides, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

It’s also great for meal prep, so don’t be afraid to double the recipe and have leftovers ready for the week. The creamy coconut milk, sun-dried tomatoes, and chickpeas create the perfect harmony of flavors that’ll leave you coming back for more.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!