Imagine twirling strands of perfectly al dente pasta, each bite bursting with the earthy goodness of chickpeas and a delicate hint of herbs. This rustic chickpea pasta dish, a symphony of simple yet satisfying flavours, offers a comforting embrace with every mouthful. It’s where humble ingredients meet culinary delight.
5 minutes
20 minutes
Serves 4
Vegetarian
By Jane Baxter
From Saturday Kitchen
This chickpea pasta recipe receives a Nutri-Score of C. This indicates a moderately healthy profile. The score considers the pasta’s fibre content and the presence of vegetables, which contribute positively. However, the overall fat content influences the final score. This nutri-score has been automatically calculated from the ingredients in the recipe and is only a guide.
Equipment
- Large Pot … check on Amazon
- Colander … find it here
- Large Frying Pan … see the 4* range
- Wooden Spoon … view on Amazon
- Sharp Knife … check availability
- Chopping Board … top rated options
£7.99 (available from £7.99)
Ingredients
- olive oil 4 tbsp
- garlic cloves 2, crushed
- dried chilli flakes ½ tsp
- fresh rosemary 2 sprigs, leaves picked and chopped
- cooked chickpeas 400g tin, drained and rinsed
- vegetable stock 500ml
- dried short pasta shapes 300g (such as ditalini or macaroni)
- pecorino cheese grated, to serve
Method
Prepare the Aromatic Base
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat.
- Add the crushed garlic, chilli flakes, and chopped rosemary leaves.
- Gently sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic turns fragrant and golden, infusing the oil with its rich flavours.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
Combine and Simmer
- Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pan.
- Stir well to coat them with the aromatic oil.
- Sauté the chickpeas for about 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavours and develop a slight crispness.
Add the liquid and pasta
- Pour in the vegetable stock, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the dried short pasta shapes, ensuring they are fully submerged in the liquid.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and the liquid has been mostly absorbed.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- If the pasta absorbs the liquid too quickly, add a little more stock or water.
Finishing Touches
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pan from the heat.
- Check the seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately in warmed bowls, garnished generously with grated Pecorino cheese.
- A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also be added for extra richness and flavour.
- This chickpea pasta is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan.
Suggested Wine Pairing
Majestic: Definition Falanghina
This Italian white wine, with its bright citrus and floral notes, provides a refreshing counterpoint to the earthy chickpeas in this dish. Its crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the olive oil and cheese, enhancing the overall flavour experience. The Falanghina variety complements the savoury elements of the pasta, making each bite a delight.
Tesco: Tesco Finest Pecorino
An Italian white wine which exhibits a delicate balance of floral and fruity aromas, accompanied by a subtle minerality, pairs exquisitely with this vegetarian chickpea pasta recipe. The wine’s crisp acidity and refreshing citrus notes provide a counterpoint to the earthy, nutty flavours of the dish, resulting in a harmonious and palate-cleansing experience. Its subtle herbal undertones also complement the dish’s fresh rosemary and chili flakes, adding a layer of complexity to the pairing.
Sainsbury’s: Taste the Difference Greco di Tufo
This Southern Italian wine offers a compelling alternative, presenting notes of ripe pear, almond, and a hint of smoke. Its creamy texture and balanced acidity create a delightful contrast with the rustic nature of the chickpea pasta. The Greco di Tufo’s complexity and depth of flavour elevate the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.
What can you serve with this?
- Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce.
- Green Salad: A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted vegetables like broccoli or peppers for extra nutrients and flavour.
Nutri-score Health Check
This chickpea pasta recipe receives a Nutri-Score of C. This indicates a moderately healthy profile. The score considers the pasta’s fibre content and the presence of vegetables, which contribute positively. However, the **high carbohydrate** content of the pasta and the overall **fat content** influence the final score. This nutri-score has been automatically calculated from the ingredients in the recipe and is only a guide.
Recipe FAQ
- Can I use different types of pasta? Yes, feel free to use any short pasta shapes you like. Ditalini, macaroni, or even small shells work well.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, kale, or chopped tomatoes can enhance the nutritional value and flavour of the dish.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Pecorino cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative.
- How can I make this recipe spicier? If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of dried chilli flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh chickpeas. Soak them overnight and then cook until tender before adding them to the recipe.
- What other types of cheese work well? Instead of pecorino, parmesan would be an alternative.
Storing FAQ
- How long can I store leftover chickpea pasta? Leftover chickpea pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze this dish? Freezing is not recommended as the pasta may become mushy when thawed.
- How should I store the pasta to prevent it from drying out? Store the pasta with some of the sauce to keep it moist. If necessary, add a little olive oil or water when reheating.
Reheating FAQ
- What is the best way to reheat chickpea pasta? The best way to reheat chickpea pasta is in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out.
- Can I reheat this dish in the microwave? Yes, you can reheat it in the microwave. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to prevent splattering. Reheat in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
- Can I reheat frozen chickpea pasta? It is not recommended to freeze this dish, so reheating from frozen is not advised.
