Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas) Recipe

This Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas) recipe is a delightful Italian dish that combines the hearty texture of chickpeas with the comfort of pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it comes together in under 20 minutes. This recipe stands out for its simplicity, using only pantry staples while delivering rich flavors that are sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is ideal for those hectic days when time is limited.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing inexpensive ingredients, this recipe makes a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas, it’s a nutritious option that still feels indulgent.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course, side dish, or even a meal prep option for the week ahead.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of garlic, rosemary, and Pecorino cheese creates a rich flavor profile that elevates this simple dish.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas), having the right tools will make the cooking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and allows you to sauté ingredients perfectly.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, plus it helps mash the chickpeas effectively.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and safe.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 1 400g tin of chickpeas, drained
• 120g ditalini
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small white onion or 2 shallots (1/2 cup)
• 2 sliced garlic cloves
• 1 diced sprig of fresh rosemary
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 0.25 tsp chili flakes
• 60ml dry white wine or white wine vinegar
• 2 cups (500ml) vegetable stock
• 30g grated Pecorino
• 1 tsp salt

How to Make Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Gather all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process. Chop the onion, slice the garlic, and dice the rosemary beforehand.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

• Heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the sliced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add diced rosemary and chili flakes; cook for an additional minute before adding tomato paste.

Step 3: Add Wine and Chickpeas

• Pour in the white wine or vinegar; allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
• Add drained chickpeas along with vegetable stock.
• While simmering, crush about ¼ of the chickpeas with a wooden spoon to help thicken the sauce.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

• Stir in uncooked ditalini pasta into the mix.
• Cook while stirring frequently until pasta reaches al dente consistency (about 6–7 minutes).

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

• Once pasta is cooked, stir in grated Pecorino cheese until melted and incorporated into a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve

• Dish up your Pasta e Ceci into bowls. Season with extra black pepper, more cheese if desired, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle chili flakes, and garnish with fresh parsley if available. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas) Recipe

Serving Pasta e Ceci is a delightful experience that allows you to customize your dish to your taste. The creamy texture and rich flavors can be elevated with various toppings and sides.

Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh flavor.
• Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil gives the dish an aromatic touch.

Cheese Options

• Parmesan: Grated Parmesan enhances the savory notes of the dish.
• Feta: Crumbled feta adds a tangy contrast that complements the chickpeas.

Drizzles and Oils

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle before serving enriches flavors and adds richness.
• Chili Oil: For those who love heat, chili oil gives an exciting kick.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty Italian bread for dipping in the creamy sauce.
• Green Salad: A light salad balances the hearty pasta and adds freshness.

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How to Perfect Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas) Recipe

Achieving the perfect Pasta e Ceci is easy with just a few tips. Follow these guidelines to enhance your cooking experience.

• Use Quality Olive Oil: A good olive oil will elevate the dish’s flavor, making it richer and more satisfying.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta to maintain texture; it should have a slight bite.
• Adjust Seasoning as Needed: Taste during cooking and adjust salt or pepper to suit your preference.
• Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Adding vegetables like spinach or kale can boost nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for added depth.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing it to sit for a few minutes helps deepen the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas) Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Pasta e Ceci enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting recipe perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread is ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color, texture, and nutrition to your plate.
4. Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil, bruschetta offers a crisp bite before the main course.
5. Antipasto Platter: Include olives, marinated artichokes, and cured meats for variety in flavors.
6. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters provide crunch alongside the creamy pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pasta e ceci, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using dry chickpeas: Always opt for canned or cooked chickpeas for this recipe. Dried chickpeas require soaking and longer cooking times, which can complicate your meal.
• Not sautéing enough: Failing to sauté the onion and garlic properly can result in a bland flavor. Make sure they are cooked until translucent and aromatic.
• Ignoring the pasta cooking time: Adding pasta too early can lead to overcooked noodles. Follow the instructions closely to achieve al dente pasta.
• Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning adequately can dull the flavors. Remember to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs throughout cooking.
• Overlooking the cheese: Pecorino adds creaminess and depth. Don’t skip it or substitute with a less flavorful cheese for the best experience.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pasta e ceci in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas) Recipe

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bags.
• It lasts up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas) Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock if needed. Stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas)?

Pasta e ceci is a traditional Italian dish made by combining pasta with chickpeas in a savory broth. It’s filling and packed with flavor.

How long does it take to make Pasta e Ceci?

This pasta e ceci recipe is quick! You can prepare it in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While ditalini is traditional, feel free to use any small pasta shape you have on hand, such as elbow macaroni or small shells.

Is Pasta e Ceci suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian but can easily be made vegan by omitting Pecorino cheese or substituting it with a vegan cheese option.

Can I customize my Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas)?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach or kale, spices like cumin, or even proteins like sausage for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas) recipe offers delicious comfort food that’s both simple and satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try—you might find it becomes a favorite!