Chickpea and Squash Stew Casserole

Hearty, rustic, and soul-warming, this Chickpea and Squash Stew Casserole is the kind of dish that wraps you up like a cozy blanket. Packed with nourishing vegetables, tender chickpeas, and a rich tomato base, it's full of earthy depth and Mediterranean flair thanks to a spoonful of bold black olive tapenade.

Whether served straight from the oven or as leftovers the next day, this comforting casserole is a celebration of plant-powered goodness — warm, filling, and irresistibly satisfying.

Ingredient Benefits

Butternut Squash
Naturally sweet and velvety when roasted or stewed, squash is rich in beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), fiber, and potassium. It adds a beautiful creaminess and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes in the dish.

Chestnut Mushrooms
Earthy and meaty, mushrooms bring umami depth and a satisfying bite. They’re low in calories but rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, and selenium — great for immune support and flavor layering.

Onions
A foundational aromatic that infuses the stew with natural sweetness and complexity. Onions are rich in prebiotics and sulfur compounds that support gut and immune health.

Bell Peppers
Vibrant and sweet, bell peppers add color and crunch while packing in vitamin C, A, and antioxidants. They brighten the dish and balance the heartiness of the chickpeas and squash.

Garlic
A tiny ingredient with big flavor. Garlic adds depth and a fragrant warmth while offering antimicrobial and heart-health benefits.

Black Olive Tapenade
A bold, briny addition that brings savory Mediterranean character. Olives are full of healthy fats and antioxidants, and the tapenade infuses the stew with richness and saltiness in every spoonful.

Chickpeas
A plant-protein powerhouse that makes the dish filling and nourishing. Chickpeas are high in fiber, iron, and folate — excellent for digestion, sustained energy, and satiety.

Plum Tomatoes
The base of the stew's sauce — juicy and sweet with a touch of acidity. Tomatoes add vitamin C, lycopene, and a savory backdrop that pulls the flavors together.

Parsley (Garnish)
Fresh and bright, parsley adds a burst of green that balances the dish visually and nutritionally. It’s full of vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it more than just a pretty topping.