Spinach and Chickpea Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers & Lemon

Why?

This Spinach and Chickpea Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers is a great recipe for your digestive tract as it offers a substantial amount of the synergy couple Vitamin C and Iron. This is great for people who consume a predominantly plant-based diet and may have lower iron absorption rates:

• Vitamin C: Lemon juice and bell peppers are excellent sources of Vitamin C, providing a boost to your immune system and aiding in iron absorption from other ingredients in the meal.
• Iron: Spinach and Chickpeas are a good source of non-heme iron, ensuring a well-rounded intake of this essential mineral.

Ingredients

• Fresh spinach leaves: Spinach is high in iron.
• Chickpeas (garbanzo beans): Chickpeas are a good source of iron.
• Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green): Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C.
• Onion: Adds flavor and texture.
• Garlic: Adds flavor and contains vitamin C
• Olive oil or your preferred cooking oil.
• Spices and seasonings of your choice (such as cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper).
• Optional toppings: Fresh lemon juice, for extra vitamin C and flavor.

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened and fragrant.
3. Add sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook until they begin to soften.
4. Rinse and drain canned chickpeas, then add them to the skillet along with your chosen spices and seasonings. Stir well to combine.
5. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted.
6. Continue cooking and stirring until all ingredients are heated through and well combined.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve the stir-fry hot, optionally squeezing fresh lemon juice over the top for extra vitamin C.

Conclusion

This dish provides a combination of iron from the spinach and chickpeas, along with vitamin C from the bell peppers and lemon juice. The vitamin C helps enhance the absorption of non-heme iron (the type of iron found in plant-based foods) from the spinach and chickpeas, making it a nutritious and balanced meal option.