Revithia me Spanaki Recipe

Chef Nora Benson

27 May, 2023

Nourishing Greek Delight: Revithia me Spanaki Recipe - A Hearty Chickpea and Spinach Stew Bursting with Mediterranean Flavors

Revithia me Spanaki

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: Greek
Category: Appetizer
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 250 calories

About this recipe

Revithia me Spanaki is a delightful Greek dish that brings together the flavors of chickpeas and spinach. It's a dish that's both comforting and nutritious, making it a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire.

To prepare this dish, you'll start by soaking dried chickpeas in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. This step helps to soften the chickpeas and reduce the cooking time. Once soaked, you'll rinse them thoroughly before using.

Next, you'll heat some olive oil in a large pot and sauté finely chopped onions until they turn translucent. This adds a sweet and aromatic base to the dish. Minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery are then added to the pot, infusing the dish with their earthy flavors.

To enhance the taste, you'll stir in tomato paste, dried oregano, and ground cumin. These spices lend a warm and rich dimension to the dish, creating a fragrant and savory aroma that fills your kitchen.

Now it's time to introduce the soaked chickpeas to the pot. You'll cover them with water and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours. During this time, the chickpeas will absorb the flavors of the spices, becoming tender and yielding.

When the chickpeas are almost cooked, you'll add a bunch of freshly washed and roughly chopped spinach to the pot. The vibrant green leaves wilt and mingle with the chickpeas, adding a burst of freshness and nutritional goodness to the dish.

After a final 10-15 minutes of cooking, the Revithia me Spanaki is ready to be enjoyed. You can savor it warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to fully develop and meld together. The dish pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread and a squeeze of lemon juice, adding a touch of brightness.

In terms of its nutritional profile, Revithia me Spanaki is a wholesome choice. Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Spinach is packed with iron, vitamins A and C, and other nutrients. Combined, they create a nourishing dish that satisfies both your taste buds and your body's nutritional needs.

So, whether you're seeking a comforting main course or a flavorful side dish, Revithia me Spanaki is a fantastic option. It transports you to the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine while providing a healthy and satisfying meal.

Recipe origin and background

Revithia me Spanaki originates from Greek cuisine, which is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Greek cuisine has a rich culinary heritage that combines influences from Mediterranean, Balkan, and Middle Eastern cultures.

Chickpeas, the main ingredient in Revithia me Spanaki, have been a staple in Mediterranean diets for centuries. They are believed to have originated in the Middle East and were introduced to Greece and other Mediterranean regions through trade and cultural exchanges.

Spanaki, or spinach, is another ingredient that is widely used in Greek cooking. Spinach has been cultivated in the Mediterranean region for centuries and is appreciated for its nutritional value and versatility in various dishes.

The combination of chickpeas and spinach in Revithia me Spanaki showcases the Greeks' skill in creating delicious and nutritious meals using simple ingredients. It's a dish that exemplifies the use of seasonal produce and celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean region.

Greek cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh vegetables, herbs, olive oil, and wholesome ingredients. Revithia me Spanaki is a prime example of this culinary philosophy, as it combines the earthiness of chickpeas with the vibrant greenness of spinach, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish.

Today, Revithia me Spanaki is enjoyed not only in Greece but also by food enthusiasts around the world who appreciate the unique flavors and health benefits it offers. It represents the time-honored traditions and cultural heritage of Greek cuisine while appealing to contemporary tastes and preferences.

Why try this Revithia me Spanaki recipe?

Flavorful and Balanced Taste: Revithia me Spanaki combines the nuttiness of chickpeas with the freshness of spinach and the aromatic blend of spices and herbs. The flavors come together harmoniously, creating a satisfying and well-balanced taste experience.
Nutritional Benefits: This dish is packed with nutritious ingredients. Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins, and antioxidants. By enjoying Revithia me Spanaki, you'll be incorporating wholesome ingredients into your diet.
Easy to Prepare: The recipe is relatively simple to make, with straightforward steps. Soaking the chickpeas overnight and simmering them with the other ingredients allows the flavors to develop gradually. It's a recipe that can be prepared by home cooks of various skill levels.
Versatile: Revithia me Spanaki can be served as a main course or a side dish. It pairs well with crusty bread and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Its versatility makes it suitable for different occasions, whether it's a comforting family meal or a contribution to a potluck or gathering.
Greek Culinary Experience: By trying this recipe, you get to experience a taste of Greek cuisine. Greek food is renowned for its fresh ingredients, Mediterranean flavors, and healthful qualities. Revithia me Spanaki is a prime example of the simple yet delicious dishes that Greek cooking offers.
Dietary Considerations: The Revithia me Spanaki recipe is vegetarian and can be easily adapted to be vegan by omitting any animal-derived ingredients. It's also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
Cost-Effective: Chickpeas and spinach are affordable ingredients that are widely available. Making Revithia me Spanaki at home allows you to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal without breaking the bank.

Overall, trying the Revithia me Spanaki recipe provides an opportunity to explore the rich flavors of Greek cuisine, incorporate nutritious ingredients into your diet, and enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish. It's a recipe worth experiencing and adding to your culinary repertoire.

What does Revithia me Spanaki taste like?

Revithia me Spanaki offers a delightful and well-balanced combination of flavors that come together to create a satisfying taste experience.

The chickpeas in this dish have a mild and nutty flavor. They have a creamy texture when cooked, which adds a smooth and comforting element to each bite. The spices such as cumin and dried oregano infuse the chickpeas with warm and aromatic notes, enhancing their natural taste.

The spinach in Revithia me Spanaki adds a fresh and vibrant element to the dish. It has a slightly earthy and grassy flavor that complements the chickpeas beautifully. As the spinach wilts and mingles with the chickpeas during cooking, it imparts a subtle sweetness and a hint of greenness to the overall taste.

The combination of the chickpeas and spinach creates a well-rounded and harmonious flavor profile. The nuttiness of the chickpeas blends with the earthiness of the spinach, resulting in a balanced and satisfying taste experience. The dish is not overly strong or overpowering in flavor, but rather it showcases the natural qualities of the ingredients.

Additionally, the use of onion, garlic, and tomato paste in the recipe adds depth and richness to the taste. The sautéed onions provide a sweet and savory undertone, while the garlic brings its characteristic pungency. The tomato paste adds a touch of tanginess and a subtle hint of sweetness.

Revithia me Spanaki offers a comforting and flavorful taste that combines the nuttiness of chickpeas, the freshness of spinach, and the aromatic notes of spices and herbs. It's a dish that is both satisfying to the palate and nourishing for the body, capturing the essence of Greek cuisine.

What is in Revithia me Spanaki?

Chickpeas: Also known as garbanzo beans, chickpeas are legumes that provide a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals. They have a mild, nutty flavor and a creamy texture when cooked.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds vibrant green color, freshness, and nutritional benefits to the dish. It is rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and other antioxidants.
Onion: Finely chopped onion is sautéed to provide a sweet and savory base for the dish. It adds depth and flavor to the overall taste.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a pungent and aromatic note to the dish. It infuses the chickpeas and spinach with its distinct flavor.
Carrot and Celery: Diced carrot and celery contribute to the overall flavor profile. They provide a subtle sweetness and add texture to the dish.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic, olive oil adds a rich and fruity flavor. It is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and offers healthful benefits.
Tomato Paste: Tomato paste adds depth and tanginess to the dish. It provides a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Dried Oregano: Dried oregano is a common herb used in Greek cuisine. It adds earthy and slightly floral notes, contributing to the overall aroma and flavor.
Ground Cumin: Cumin brings warm and slightly smoky undertones to the dish. It adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper: These common seasonings are used to enhance the taste and balance the flavors of the dish.

Equipment required for this recipe

Large Pot: A large pot is essential for cooking the chickpeas, spinach, and other ingredients. It should be able to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably. If you don't have a large pot, you can use a Dutch oven or any deep, wide saucepan with a lid.
Cutting Board and Knife: A cutting board and a sharp knife are needed for chopping the onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and spinach.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is handy for stirring the ingredients while they cook, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
Measuring Utensils: You'll need measuring spoons and cups to accurately measure the ingredients, especially for spices like dried oregano and ground cumin.
Strainer or Colander: A strainer or colander is useful for rinsing the soaked chickpeas and draining them before cooking.
Serving Dish: Once the Revithia me Spanaki is cooked, you'll need a serving dish to present and serve the dish. Any large serving bowl or platter can be used as a substitute.
Lemon Wedges and Crusty Bread: Lemon wedges and crusty bread are optional accompaniments that enhance the flavor and enjoyment of the dish. If you don't have lemon wedges, you can use a squeeze of lemon juice from a bottle. If crusty bread is not available, you can serve the dish with any type of bread or skip it altogether.

How to make Revithia me Spanaki

Discover the delightful flavors of Revithia me Spanaki, a Greek-inspired chickpea and spinach stew. Easy to make and bursting with Mediterranean goodness.

Ingredients

2 cups dried chickpeas
1 bunch spinach, washed and roughly chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Water

Instructions

Soak the dried chickpeas in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse them before using.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
Add the minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, and ground cumin. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the soaked and rinsed chickpeas to the pot. Pour enough water to cover the chickpeas by about 2 inches. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chickpeas are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to keep the chickpeas covered.
When the chickpeas are almost cooked, add the chopped spinach to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. The dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Serve the Revithia me Spanaki as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with crusty bread and a squeeze of lemon juice on top.

Enjoy your Revithia me Spanaki!

How to serve Revithia me Spanaki

Plating: Begin by selecting a suitable serving dish or platter. Make sure it's large enough to accommodate the entire batch of Revithia me Spanaki.
Ladle the Dish: Use a large spoon or ladle to carefully transfer the Revithia me Spanaki from the cooking pot to the serving dish. Make sure to include a generous amount of chickpeas, spinach, and any remaining sauce or broth.
Garnish (Optional): If desired, you can garnish the dish with a few additional ingredients to enhance its appearance and flavor. For example, you can add a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top.
Squeeze of Lemon (Optional): Serve the dish with lemon wedges on the side. This allows each person to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their portion, adding a bright and tangy flavor if desired.
Bread Accompaniment: Revithia me Spanaki pairs wonderfully with crusty bread. Consider serving a basket of sliced or torn crusty bread alongside the dish. This allows diners to dip the bread into the flavorful sauce and savor the combination of textures and tastes.
Enjoy: Place the serving dish with the Revithia me Spanaki at the center of the table. Invite your guests or family members to help themselves. It can be served as a main course with a side of bread or as a side dish alongside other Greek-inspired dishes.

Remember to provide utensils such as spoons or forks for serving and individual plates for each person. Encourage everyone to enjoy the flavors and textures of the dish while savoring the delicious combination of chickpeas, spinach, and Mediterranean spices.

Revithia me Spanaki is best served warm or at room temperature. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 86 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Revithia me Spanaki, Revithia me Spanaki Recipe, Recipe, Greek Chickpeas with Spinach, Top rated

What to serve Revithia me Spanaki with

Crusty Bread: Serve Revithia me Spanaki with slices of crusty bread or pita bread. The bread can be used to scoop up the chickpeas, spinach, and sauce, adding a delightful texture and absorbing the flavors.
Greek Salad: A classic Greek salad complements Revithia me Spanaki beautifully. The crisp freshness of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and lemon juice adds a refreshing and tangy element to the meal.
Tzatziki Sauce: Tzatziki, a yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and herbs, is a cooling and creamy addition to the meal. It provides a contrast to the warm and savory flavors of Revithia me Spanaki.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes are a wonderful side dish option. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables complement the hearty chickpeas and spinach.
Greek Rice Pilaf: Serve Revithia me Spanaki with a side of Greek-style rice pilaf. The fragrant and fluffy rice, cooked with onions, herbs, and sometimes tomato, adds a comforting and flavorful component to the meal.
Dolmades: Dolmades, stuffed grape leaves filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat, are a tasty and traditional Greek appetizer that can be served alongside Revithia me Spanaki.
Greek Yogurt: A bowl of creamy Greek yogurt makes a refreshing and cooling accompaniment to the meal. It can be served on its own or topped with a drizzle of honey and sprinkling of nuts for added sweetness and crunch.

My recommendations and tips

Soak the Chickpeas: Make sure to soak the chickpeas overnight before cooking. This helps to soften them and reduce the cooking time. Drain and rinse them well before using.
Cook the Chickpeas Until Tender: When cooking the chickpeas, simmer them until they are tender but still hold their shape. Test a few chickpeas by pressing them between your fingers to ensure they are cooked to your desired tenderness.
Adjust Consistency: The consistency of the dish can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a thicker stew-like consistency, you can simmer the chickpeas and spinach for a longer time to allow the liquid to reduce. If you prefer more broth, you can add a bit more water or vegetable broth during cooking.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the dish as it cooks and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices like cumin and dried oregano to suit your taste.
Don't Overcook the Spinach: Add the spinach towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming overcooked. The spinach should wilt and blend with the flavors but still retain its vibrant green color.
Experiment with Additions: While the traditional Revithia me Spanaki recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients if you'd like. Some variations include adding diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Allow the Flavors to Develop: Revithia me Spanaki is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. The flavors have more time to meld and develop, resulting in a richer and more flavorful dish. Consider making it ahead of time and reheating it when ready to serve.
Serve with Fresh Ingredients: When serving, garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for added freshness and visual appeal.
Storage and Reheating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm the dish on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Enjoy the Mediterranean Experience: Embrace the relaxed and communal nature of Mediterranean cuisine by inviting friends or family to share the meal with you. Gather around the table, savor the flavors, and enjoy the company.

Potential ingredients substitutes

Chickpeas: If you don't have chickpeas or prefer a different legume, you can substitute them with other beans like white beans, kidney beans, or black-eyed peas. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the substitute you choose.
Spinach: While spinach is a key ingredient in Revithia me Spanaki, you can substitute it with other leafy greens such as kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the substitute, as some greens require a longer cooking time to soften.
Onion: If you don't have onions, you can substitute them with shallots or leeks for a similar flavor. Alternatively, you can use onion powder or granulated onion as a seasoning substitute, adjusting the amount to taste.
Garlic: If you're out of fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder or granulated garlic as a substitute. Remember that the flavor may be slightly different, so adjust the quantity according to your preference.
Carrot and Celery: While carrot and celery add flavor and texture to the dish, they can be omitted if you don't have them on hand. The dish will still be delicious with the other ingredients.
Tomato Paste: If you don't have tomato paste, you can substitute it with tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Keep in mind that the consistency and flavor may vary slightly, so adjust the amount accordingly.
Dried Oregano: If you don't have dried oregano, you can use other dried herbs like dried basil or thyme. Alternatively, you can use fresh herbs such as chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Ground Cumin: Cumin adds a distinctive flavor to the dish, but if you don't have it, you can substitute it with ground coriander or a blend of other spices like curry powder or garam masala. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.

Additional note

Adjusting the Spiciness: If you prefer a spicier version of the dish, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. This will give it a subtle kick of heat. Adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance and personal preference.
Serving Size and Scaling: The recipe provided is for a certain number of servings, but you can easily scale it up or down depending on your needs. If you're cooking for a larger group, simply double or triple the quantities of the ingredients. Conversely, if you're cooking for fewer people, you can halve the ingredients accordingly.
Make It Ahead: Revithia me Spanaki is a dish that benefits from allowing the flavors to meld and develop over time. You can prepare it in advance and let it sit for a few hours or overnight before reheating and serving. This allows the flavors to intensify and results in a more robust and delicious dish.
Freezing: Revithia me Spanaki can be frozen for future consumption. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely and transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Nutritional Information: While I don't have access to specific nutritional information for this recipe, Revithia me Spanaki is generally a nutritious dish. It's high in protein and fiber from the chickpeas, and spinach adds vitamins and minerals. However, the specific nutritional content may vary based on the ingredients and portion sizes used.
Customization: Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, incorporate different herbs and spices, or adjust the seasoning levels according to your liking. Cooking is an art, so feel free to experiment and make the dish your own.

Final Remark

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Revithia me Spanaki, a comforting Greek dish. With its nourishing ingredients and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for Mediterranean cuisine. Give it a try and embark on a culinary journey filled with warmth and deliciousness.