Name: Deliciously Creamy Marry Me Chickpeas for a Vegan Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 can Chickpeas (drained and rinsed); 1 cup Vegan Cream (or cashew cream for creamier texture); ½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (chopped); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); ½ cup Basil (fresh, chopped); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for sautéing); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper

Sautéing garlic in olive oil fills the kitchen with a familiar warmth, my mind instantly transported back to cherished family dinners surrounded by laughter. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a dish that’s as heartwarming as those memories: Marry Me Chickpeas for a Vegan Dinner. This creamy, one-pan wonder marries tender chickpeas with a rich sun-dried tomato sauce, ready to impress in just 20 minutes! The best part? It’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you’re craving comfort food without the mess. Plus, it’s not just a delicious meal; it’s also a fantastic way to wow your dinner guests while keeping things wholesome. Could you resist such a delightful fusion of flavors? Let’s get cooking!

Marry Me Chickpeas for a Vegan Dinner

Why Choose Marry Me Chickpeas?

Quick Preparation: This dish takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.

One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is a reality—sauté, stir, and serve in a single skillet!

Vegan Delight: Packed with nutritious chickpeas, this recipe is great for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty plant-based meal.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and vegan cream creates a robust sauce that’s hard to resist.

Crowd-Pleasing: Serve this dish over pasta, quinoa, or with crusty bread—it’s sure to impress your family and friends!

For an extra kick, try adding some spice or leafy greens, just like in my Spicy Marry Me Chickpeas.

Marry Me Chickpeas Ingredients

For the Chickpeas
• Chickpeas – They serve as the heart of this dish, bringing protein and bite; feel free to swap in cooked lentils for a different twist.

For the Creamy Sauce
• Vegan Cream – This ingredient adds irresistible richness; consider using cashew cream for an even creamier experience.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – These provide tang and vibrant color; if fresh tomatoes are all you have, they can be used, but the texture will differ.
• Garlic – A must for aromatic depth; remember to sauté carefully to prevent bitterness, or use shallots for a milder taste.
• Basil – Fresh basil sprinkles brightness and flavor; if you don’t have it, oregano or parsley works as a delightful substitute.
• Tomato Paste – Enhances the tomato flavor; if needed, crushed tomatoes can stand in but will yield a lighter taste.
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing and flavor development; any cooking oil like coconut or avocado can easily replace it.

Seasoning and Preparation
• Salt and Pepper – Adjust these to your taste preferences for that perfect finishing touch.

Dive into this quick and creamy Marry Me Chickpeas for a vegan dinner that’ll warm your heart and impress any guest!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chickpeas for a Vegan Dinner

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until they are fragrant and golden, being careful not to let them burn. This step is crucial for building the foundation of flavor in your Marry Me Chickpeas.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
Next, stir in ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 can of drained chickpeas. Follow this by adding 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chickpeas to get a touch of warmth and flavor from the sautéed garlic and tomatoes.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now, introduce 1 cup of vegan cream to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch for the sauce to thicken, creating a creamy texture that coats the chickpeas beautifully. This step transforms your dish into the luscious Marry Me Chickpeas we all love.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs
After the sauce has thickened, jumble in a handful of freshly chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the dish to cook for an additional minute, just long enough for the herbs to release their aromatic oils, adding a final layer of freshness to your Marry Me Chickpeas.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Marry Me Chickpeas are now ready to serve! Ladle the creamy mixture over a bed of quinoa, toss with pasta, or serve with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish as you share it with family or guests, inviting everyone to indulge in this delightful vegan dinner.

Marry Me Chickpeas for a Vegan Dinner

Expert Tips for Marry Me Chickpeas

• Avoid Garlic Bitterness: Sauté garlic just until fragrant and golden. Overcooking can create a bitter flavor that spoils your dish’s base.

• Perfect Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in. This will help thicken your Marry Me Chickpeas for that creamy texture.

• Fresh Herbs Last: Always add fresh herbs at the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavor and aroma, enhancing the overall experience.

• Reheating with Care: When reheating leftovers, do so gently on low heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to maintain creaminess and prevent drying out.

• Customize with Spice: For those who enjoy a kick, feel free to add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the cooking process for a delicious twist on your Marry Me Chickpeas.

Make Ahead Options

These Marry Me Chickpeas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance by cooking it fully and then refrigerating it in an airtight container. To maintain the dish’s creamy consistency, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can prep individual components ahead of time, such as sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply combine everything in the skillet, add the vegan cream, and heat it through for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Quick and Creamy Marry Me Chickpeas?

Savoring each bite of this creamy vegan dish opens up a world of possibilities for delightful pairings that enhance your dining experience.

Fluffy Quinoa: The nutty flavor and fluffy texture of quinoa absorb the rich sauce beautifully, making each mouthful satisfying.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy and buttery, dipping warm garlic breadsticks into the creamy chickpeas adds an irresistible crunch.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green, tender broccoli offers a fresh, crisp contrast, balancing the hearty flavors of the chickpeas.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety sweetness of mashed potatoes provides another layer of comfort, perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette adds brightness, refreshing your palate with each course.
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs complements the dish’s richness while adding a delightful texture.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus with a touch of garlic adds an earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Chill White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the overall experience, bringing out the flavors of the dish and creating a lovely balance.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, a velvety mousse made from avocados and cocoa offers a decadent yet healthy sweet ending.

Marry Me Chickpeas Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into this dish and make it uniquely yours!

Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a zesty kick that elevates the flavor profile. You can adjust the spice level to suit your palate.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in nutritional yeast or your favorite dairy-free cheese during the cream stage for a richer, cheesier experience. Just imagine that melty goodness enhancing the creamy sauce!
Greens Galore: Toss in fresh spinach or kale when stirring in the cream, adding a healthy touch without sacrificing flavor. These greens wilt beautifully, blending in with the luxe sauce.
Lentil Swap: Replace chickpeas with cooked lentils for a different texture and flavor twist. Lentils provide a hearty base while still being creamy and delicious.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme in place of basil for a unique aromatic profile that complements the sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.
Nutty Extra: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top before serving for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
Coconut Creamy: For a tropical twist, substitute vegan cream with coconut cream that will create an indulgent flavor profile. Just remember, it will add a hint of tropical sweetness!
Mushroom Medley: Sauté some sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for added depth and umami flavor. These earthy morsels bring a satisfying texture to the dish.

For more delicious ideas, consider heating things up with my Spicy Marry Me Chickpeas to cater to your taste buds!

How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chickpeas

Fridge: Store your Marry Me Chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring the creamy texture remains intact for your next meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, let the dish cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. These flavorful Chickpeas can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water as needed to restore creaminess.

Make-Ahead Benefits: Feel free to prepare this dish a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making your Marry Me Chickpeas even more delicious!

Marry Me Chickpeas for a Vegan Dinner

Marry Me Chickpeas Recipe FAQs

What type of chickpeas should I use for this recipe?
You can use canned chickpeas for convenience, just make sure to drain and rinse them well. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use dried chickpeas that you soak overnight and cook until tender—just be aware they take much longer to prepare!

How do I store leftover Marry Me Chickpeas?
Store your Marry Me Chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re well-covered to keep their creamy texture intact. I often love to enjoy the leftovers for a quick lunch the next day!

Can I freeze Marry Me Chickpeas?
Absolutely! For freezing, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of vegetable broth to restore creaminess.

What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
If you find the sauce isn’t thickening as you want, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to form a slurry. Gradually stir this mixture into the sauce while it’s simmering, and it should thicken nicely! Keep an eye on it and stir frequently to prevent clumping.

Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes! If you need to avoid nuts, you can use a soy-based or other nut-free vegan cream in place of cashew cream. Just make sure to check labels for any allergens, as some products may contain traces of nuts.

Can I customize Marry Me Chickpeas for a spicier taste?
Very much so! For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the garlic. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference—start light, and add more as you taste!

Marry Me Chickpeas Recipe FAQs