High-Protein Chickpea and Spinach Curry with Coconut Milk

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-21 · Updated 2026-05-21

A nutritious vegan curry bursting with protein-rich chickpeas and vibrant spinach simmered in creamy coconut milk and fragrant spices for a comforting, wholesome meal. This Indian-inspired vegan recipe (high protein), ready in about 35 minutes, pairs canned chickpeas, fresh spinach, coconut milk for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed canned chickpeas
• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 1 can (13.5 oz), full fat coconut milk
• 1 large, finely chopped onion
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp, grated fresh ginger
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup, chopped (optional) fresh cilantro

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 tsp cumin seeds and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 large finely chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the onion is translucent.
2. Step 2: Stir in 2 tbsp curry powder, 1 tsp turmeric powder, and 1 tsp salt. Cook for 1 minute until spices are aromatic.
3. Step 3: Add 2 cans (15 oz each) drained chickpeas, 1 cup water, and 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
4. Step 4: Add 6 cups fresh spinach and cook for 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts but remains bright green. Remove from heat and garnish with 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with rice or flatbread.