Spicy Chickpea Delight with Creamy Feta Dream

Spicy Chickpea Delight with Creamy Feta Dream

09 February 2025

Spicy Chickpea Delight with Creamy Feta Dream

Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Want something healthy, flavorful, and quick to make? Look no further! This recipe for harissa chickpeas with whipped feta is a game-changer, even if you're not a huge chickpea fan.

I'll be honest, chickpeas aren't always my first choice, but this recipe has completely won me over. The combination of spicy, saucy chickpeas with creamy, garlicky whipped feta is simply irresistible. Served with warm naan, a squeeze of lemon, and crunchy cucumbers, it’s a meal that ticks all the boxes.

Two Simple Steps for Culinary Bliss

This recipe is delightfully simple, with just two main parts.

Part One: The Spiced Chickpeas

Start by creating a flavorful base of:

  • Harissa paste – the star of the show.
  • Garlic – because everything tastes better with garlic.
  • Canned crushed tomatoes – for that saucy goodness.
  • Olive oil – the base for all the flavors.
  • Canned chickpeas – the healthy protein source.

Don't just dump the chickpeas in – give them a gentle smash with a potato masher. This breaks them down a little and helps them absorb all the flavors, creating a richer, stickier sauce.

And here's a secret twist: add a handful of golden raisins near the end. They plump up and add a burst of unexpected sweetness that perfectly balances the heat.

Part Two: The Whipped Feta Dream

The whipped feta is what makes this dish sing. It’s creamy, tangy, and salty – the perfect counterpoint to the spicy chickpeas.

If you're short on time or energy, feel free to swap it out for store-bought tzatziki or plain yogurt. But if you have the minutes, you’ll be rewarded with a salty, creamy sauce that elevates the dish.

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal and makes great leftovers for lunch. You can serve it with:

  • Soft flatbread or naan – the ideal for scooping up every last bit.
  • Rice or cauliflower rice – for a lighter option.
  • Roasted vegetables – for extra nutrients.

This dish is a hit with the whole family, adults love the spice, and kids can enjoy the elements separately or together. It’s a win-win!

Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta: Frequently Asked Questions

What else can I serve with this?

Besides the suggested naan, pita bread, rice, or roasted veggies, try it with quinoa or a side of roasted sweet potatoes.

How spicy is this dish?

Two tablespoons of harissa paste will give you a medium-level spiciness. If you prefer it milder, start with one tablespoon.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely! Store the chickpeas, whipped feta, and toppings separately, then assemble when you're ready to eat.

Ingredients

For the Whipped Feta:

  • 4-6 oz feta cheese
  • A spoonful of cream cheese or Greek yogurt
  • 1 small clove of garlic

For the Harissa Chickpeas:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2-3 cloves garlic
  • 1-2 tablespoons harissa paste
  • One 14-ounce can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
  • Two 14-ounce cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Squeeze of lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
  • 1/4 cup golden raisins (optional, but recommended!)

Extras for Serving:

  • 4 pieces pita or naan
  • 1 diced cucumber
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 1/2 cup olives

Instructions

  1. Make the Whipped Feta: Pulse the feta, cream cheese, and garlic in a food processor until smooth. Add a little water to loosen it up, if needed.
  2. Make the Chickpeas: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and harissa paste; sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add tomatoes and chickpeas. Simmer for 4-5 minutes. Smash some of the chickpeas. Season with lemon juice, salt, and parsley. Stir in the raisins and add water if necessary.
  3. Serve: Plate the harissa chickpeas and top with whipped feta and your favorite extras. Enjoy!

More Chickpea Recipes to Explore

One More Thing

This recipe is part of our collection of healthy chickpea recipes. Check it out for more ideas!

Enjoy this delightful and nutritious meal! Let me know how it turns out in the comments below.