A Mediterranean Recipe with Chickpeas, Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives

Chickpeas are the heart of many delicious plant-based meals, and this recipe is no exception. Packed with protein and nutrients, chickpeas bring a satisfying, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and briny olives. Together, these simple ingredients create a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick weekday meal or a cozy dinner.

The sun-dried tomatoes offer bursts of rich sweetness, while the olives add a bold, savory touch. A sprinkle of herbs, a hint of garlic, and a squeeze of fresh lemon tie everything together, making this dish as aromatic as it is delicious. The best part? It’s easy to make, requiring only basic ingredients and less than 30 minutes of your time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
  
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (rehydrated if dry, or drained if in oil)
• ½ cup olives (pitted and sliced)
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or oil from the sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• A pinch of chili flakes (optional)
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: If your sun-dried tomatoes are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften, then chop. Rinse and drain the chickpeas if using canned.

2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Cook the chickpeas: Stir in the chickpeas, paprika, oregano, and chili flakes. Let everything cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to absorb the flavors.

4. Add the tomatoes and olives: Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes and olives, stirring to combine. Cook for another 3 minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Finish with lemon and herbs: Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. This dish is delicious on its own or alongside quinoa, couscous, or pita bread.

Serving Suggestions

This chickpea dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of greens for a light lunch, or alongside roasted vegetables and a grain for a heartier meal. You can also spoon it into wraps or pita bread for an on-the-go option.

Tips and Variations

• Add fresh spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.
• Drizzle with tahini or vegan yogurt for a creamy finish.
• Make it a stew by adding vegetable broth or diced tomatoes.
• Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds for added texture.

Chickpeas have a way of turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. This dish showcases their versatility and the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to try something new, this recipe will bring warmth and bold taste to your table.

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