While we whip up this warm and healthy soup we sing: “I’m Popeye the sailor man; I’m strong to the finach ‘cause I eats me spinach…” Popeye knew what he was doing. Spinach is not only a great source of vitamin K, A and C but provides your body with iron to give you energy. It is one of the healthiest vegetables and known as a super-food antioxidant!  Our spinach and chickpea soup not only packs in spinach but chickpeas as well. Because chickpeas are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, they are known for offering a vast amount of health benefits such as weight management, improved digestion, and a reduced risk for disease. Chickpeas have been a key ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines and dates back 9,500 years as a diet staple. Get your dose of spinach today and enjoy!

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 Tbsp Joy’s Gourmet EVOO
• 1 Tbsp Joy’s Gourmet Original Garlic Spread
• ½ cup scallions, chopped
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 Tbsp dried parsley
• 32 oz vegetable broth
• 1 can chickpeas (or soak dried chickpeas overnight, rinse, and drain)
• 4 cups packed fresh spinach, chopped
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 red pepper, grated (optional)

DIRECTIONS:                 

1.       In a large pot over medium heat, heat EVOO.

2.     Add scallions, parsley and garlic spread, sauté for 2 minutes.

3.     Add broth and bring to a boil.

4.     Add chickpeas and cumin, reduce heat to a simmer, cook for 10 minutes stirring occasionally.

5.     Add spinach, stir gently, and simmer 3-4 more minutes.

6.     If you like red pepper, add it in when you add the chickpeas (optional).

7.     Season with salt and pepper.

Buy ingredients here or check out locations on our website for a shop near you that carries Joy’s Gourmet products.