If you’re looking to impress your friends and family with a mouthwatering dish that’s both healthy and packed with flavor, look no further than these Eggplant Chickpea Spinach Empanadas! This Latin American delight combines the hearty goodness of eggplant and chickpeas with the vibrant freshness of spinach, all encased in a golden, flaky pastry. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or a cozy night in, these empanadas are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Latin American
Serves: 12 empanadas
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant, diced
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 package empanada dough
- Olive oil for brushing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the filling for the empanadas. Start by dicing the large eggplant into small cubes. This will help it cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Next, add the diced eggplant to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Once the eggplant is cooked, add the drained chickpeas and chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly while you prepare the empanada dough.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- On a clean, flat surface, lay out the empanada dough circles. If using frozen dough, make sure it has thawed completely before handling.
- Place a generous spoonful of the eggplant, chickpea, and spinach filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this may cause the empanadas to burst while baking.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to ensure they are sealed properly.
- Transfer the filled empanadas to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil to help them achieve a golden color while baking.
- Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
- Once baked, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or main dish, and enjoy your homemade Eggplant Chickpea Spinach Empanadas!
Tips
- Choose the Right Eggplant: Look for a firm, shiny eggplant with smooth skin. This will ensure the best texture and flavor for your filling.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the eggplant to cook thoroughly until it’s tender. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavors in your filling.
- Season Generously: Adjust the salt, pepper, and paprika to your taste. A little extra seasoning can elevate the overall flavor of your empanadas.
- Avoid Overfilling: When placing the filling on the empanada dough, remember that less is more. Overfilling can lead to bursting during baking.
- Crimp for Success: Use a fork to crimp the edges of the empanadas for a decorative touch and to ensure they are sealed tightly.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices or herbs like cumin, coriander, or fresh cilantro to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Enhance your empanadas by serving them with a side of chimichurri, salsa, or a tangy yogurt sauce for dipping.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the empanadas when you’re ready to bake them, making it a great option for entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
