If you’re looking for a vibrant, nutritious, and incredibly tasty spread to brighten up your sandwiches, snacks, or even salads, the Kale Chickpea Spread with Tahini and Fresh Herbs Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Combining the earthiness of kale with creamy chickpeas, the nutty richness of tahini, and the brightness of fresh herbs, this spread offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will make you reach for more every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry and fridge staples, yet each plays a vital role in creating the unique flavor and creamy texture of the spread. From the fibrous kale to the zesty lemon juice, every component brings something essential to the table.
- Kale (2 medium leaves, ribbed): Adds earthiness, vibrant green color, and a boost of nutrients.
- Carrot (1 medium, peeled and chunked): Gives natural sweetness and a slight crunch.
- Chickpeas (1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed): The creamy base packed with protein and fiber.
- Nutritional yeast (2 tablespoons): Infuses a subtle cheesy, savory flavor without dairy.
- Tahini (1/3 cup): Brings richness with its smooth, sesame-based creaminess.
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley (1/4 cup leaves): Adds freshness and a herbaceous kick.
- Green onions (2, green parts only, roughly chopped): Offers a mild onion sharpness without overpowering.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the spread, balancing richness with acidity.
- Prepared yellow mustard (2 teaspoons): Adds subtle tang and depth.
- Celtic sea salt (1 teaspoon, plus more to taste): Enhances all the flavors naturally.
- Curry powder (1/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste): Introduces warm, aromatic spice notes.
- Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste): Grounds the flavor with earthy warmth.
- Freshly ground pepper (1/8 teaspoon, plus more to taste): Gives a gentle heat to round out the profile.
How to Make Kale Chickpea Spread with Tahini and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Combine Ingredients
Start by gathering your kale leaves with the tough ribs removed and your peeled carrot chunks. In a food processor, add the kale, carrot, rinsed chickpeas, nutritional yeast, tahini, fresh parsley, chopped green parts of the green onions, lemon juice, yellow mustard, salt, curry powder, cumin, and freshly ground pepper. Combining everything at once allows these bold flavors to begin melding immediately.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth
Pulse or blend the mixture until it becomes a luscious, creamy spread. Don’t hesitate to stop and scrape down the sides of your food processor bowl a few times. This helps everything blend evenly and ensures that leaves and chickpeas fully incorporate for a silky texture.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
This step is so important. Take a moment to taste your spread and tweak the salt, spice, or lemon to your liking. Sometimes a little extra curry powder or another sprinkle of cumin can add that perfect finishing touch that makes it truly sing.
Step 4: Transfer and Enjoy
Once you’re happy with the flavor and consistency, scoop your gorgeous kale chickpea spread into a serving bowl. It’s ready to be enjoyed immediately as a delicious sandwich spread, an irresistible dip for fresh veggies, or even a flavorful addition to your favorite grain bowl.
How to Serve Kale Chickpea Spread with Tahini and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a finishing garnish can really elevate this spread visually and taste-wise. Try sprinkling a pinch of smoked paprika or a drizzle of olive oil on top. Fresh parsley leaves or finely chopped green onions make for a fresh pop of green, complementing the herbs inside perfectly.
Side Dishes
This spread pairs beautifully with crisp crudités like cucumber and bell pepper sticks, crunchy pita chips, or toasted whole grain bread. It also shines alongside a simple salad or as part of a mezze platter with olives and roasted vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, use this spread as the base layer on flatbreads topped with sliced radishes and sprouts or dollop it onto baked sweet potatoes for a hearty snack. You can also mix some into warm quinoa or rice for an easy herby side dish that bursts with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This kale chickpea spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It keeps beautifully and actually tastes even better after the flavors have mingled overnight.
Freezing
If you want to keep the spread longer, freezing is an option. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving and stir well to recombine any separation.
Reheating
This spread is typically eaten cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warm, gently heat it in a small saucepan over low heat while stirring frequently. Avoid overheating, as tahini can separate and alter the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use other greens instead of kale?
Absolutely! While kale is ideal for its robust flavor and nutrition, you can substitute spinach, Swiss chard, or even beet greens. Just note that these alternatives have a milder taste and softer texture.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, the Kale Chickpea Spread with Tahini and Fresh Herbs Recipe is completely vegan and naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
How spicy is the curry powder in this spread?
The curry powder adds warmth and aromatic spice without making it hot or overpowering. You can easily adjust the quantity to suit your spice preference or leave it out if you prefer.
Can I add garlic to this spread?
Definitely! A small clove or two of fresh garlic would add a nice kick. Just add it during blending and adjust the amount based on your taste.
What can I use this spread for besides sandwiches?
This versatile spread works wonderfully as a dip, a topping for roasted vegetables, a dollop on baked potatoes, or as a flavorful addition to grain bowls and salads.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a recipe that’s simple, wholesome, and bursting with fresh flavor, and this Kale Chickpea Spread with Tahini and Fresh Herbs Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s one of those dishes you’ll want to keep making again and again, whether you’re needing a quick lunch, a healthy snack, or a tasty party appetizer. I hope you enjoy creating and savoring every bite of this vibrant spread as much as I do!
Print
Kale Chickpea Spread with Tahini and Fresh Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Spread
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Kale Chickpea Sandwich Spread is a nutritious and flavorful plant-based recipe perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a dip. Packed with wholesome ingredients like kale, chickpeas, and tahini, it offers a creamy texture and a delightful blend of spices without any cooking required. Quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, this spread is an excellent option for a healthy snack or light meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium kale leaves, ribbed
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 green onions (green parts only), roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
Pantry Staples
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1/3 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon Celtic sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, plus more to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, plus more to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, combine kale, carrot, chickpeas, nutritional yeast, tahini, parsley, green onions, lemon juice, mustard, salt, curry powder, cumin, and pepper.
- Blend Smooth: Blend the mixture until smooth, scraping down the sides of the processor bowl as needed to ensure even blending.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the spread and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, spices, or lemon juice according to your preference.
- Serve: Transfer the finished spread to a serving bowl and enjoy it as a flavorful sandwich spread or a healthy dip.
Notes
- You can store this spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For added texture, reserve some chickpeas and fold them in after blending.
- Great served on whole grain bread, crackers, or as a dip with raw vegetables.
- Adjust spices based on your flavor preference, adding more curry powder or cumin for a bolder taste.
