Healthy Dinner Mediterranean Chickpea Bake

Name: Healthy Dinner Mediterranean Chickpea Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love creating meals that are both healthy and satisfying, and this Mediterranean Chickpea Bake really hits the mark. Packed with protein from the chickpeas and bursting with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs, this dish is a treat for both the eyes and taste buds. It’s a perfect addition to my dinner rotation, offering a quick and nourishing option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what I have on hand!

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:01:11.958Z

Preparing this Mediterranean Chickpea Bake has been a game changer for my weeknight dinners. I’ve experimented with different herbs and spices, but I find that a mix of oregano and thyme really elevates the dish. The chickpeas not only provide a hearty base but also are a great source of fiber and protein, making it filling without feeling heavy.

I also love how this recipe allows me to use whatever vegetables I have on hand. The vibrant mix of colors from the bell peppers and spinach makes it visually appealing, and cooking it in a single dish means less cleanup. It’s a win-win for me!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutrient-dense and packed with plant-based protein
Vibrant flavors that remind you of a Mediterranean getaway
Versatile and customizable with your favorite vegetables

      

Ingredient Spotlight

Chickpeas are not just a source of protein; they provide fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you satiated. This recipe calls for canned chickpeas, which are convenient and quick to prepare, but if you prefer, you can use cooked dried chickpeas. Just soak them overnight and boil until tender, which gives them a firmer texture and a deeper flavor that can enhance the overall dish.

The vibrant mix of vegetables plays an essential role in the flavor profile. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while sun-dried tomatoes contribute a rich, tangy depth that contrasts nicely with the salty black olives. If you’re missing any of these, feel free to substitute with similar ingredients: roasted red peppers can replace fresh bell peppers, and kale can be used in place of spinach for added crunch.

Baking Tips for Perfection

To ensure even cooking, it's crucial to spread the mixture in a single layer in the baking dish. If the ingredients are piled up, they may steam instead of roast, resulting in a soggy texture. Keep an eye on the bake towards the end of the cooking time; the dish is ready when the vegetables are tender and golden on the edges, and the chickpeas have taken on a slightly crispy texture.

If you prefer a complete meal in one dish, consider topping the bake with crumbled feta or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan about five minutes before the end of baking. This small addition will melt beautifully, imparting a creamy tang that complements the Mediterranean flavors. Just remember to keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Chickpea Bake

2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, spinach, bell pepper, black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, oregano, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Transfer to Bake Dish

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chickpeas are slightly crispy.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and let it cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices. This dish is versatile and can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Mediterranean Chickpea Bake can be easily prepared in advance. Simply follow all the steps up to the final bake, cover the assembled dish with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven directly from the fridge, but add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but using the oven will help maintain that desirable crispy texture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the dish further, serve the chickpea bake over a bed of fluffy quinoa or alongside a fresh Mediterranean salad. The cool, crunchy veggies in the salad will complement the warm, savory chickpea bake beautifully, adding freshness and balance to the meal.

For those looking to add extra protein, consider serving this dish with grilled chicken or fish. Alternatively, this bake can also be enjoyed as a hearty filling for wraps or pitas, making it a versatile option for lunch the next day. It’s satisfying enough to stand alone as a main dish but can also shine as a side alongside your favorite meats.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Just soak and cook them according to package instructions before using.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add zucchini, eggplant, or any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and bake it just before serving.