Savor the perfect balance of hearty and fresh with this irresistible Spinach and Chickpeas with Bacon recipe! This quick and flavorful dish combines crispy, smoky bacon with tender chickpeas and vibrant baby spinach, all seasoned with aromatic garlic, a hint of smoked paprika, and a zesty splash of fresh lemon juice. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy, one-skillet recipe that’s as versatile as it is satisfying—perfect as a nutrient-packed side dish or a light yet fulfilling main course. The contrasting textures and bold flavors make this dish a standout, while its simple preparation ensures it’ll become a weeknight favorite. Try it today for a wholesome and delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor!
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until crispy on both sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet, place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, and reserve about 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the skillet.
Crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
To the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the chickpeas and smoked paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the chickpeas are coated in the spices and warmed through.
Add the baby spinach to the skillet, tossing gently to wilt it, about 2-3 minutes. Work in batches if needed, as the spinach will shrink as it cooks.
Drizzle the lemon juice over the mixture and season with salt and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the spinach and chickpeas.
Serve the dish warm as a side or a light main dish. Enjoy!
Calories |
1128 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 42.4 g | 54% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.1 g | 45% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 48 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 2828 mg | 123% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 131.7 g | 48% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 37.6 g | 134% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.3 g | ||
| Protein | 58.9 g | 118% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 356 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 17.7 mg | 98% | |
| Potassium | 1637 mg | 35% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.