If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, my pasta e ceci recipe is just the ticket! This simple and hearty Italian classic combines tender pasta and creamy chickpeas in a flavorful broth that’s both comforting and satisfying. Trust me, there’s something magical about the way these ingredients meld together, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s a dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners and the aromas wafting through the kitchen, making it a beloved staple in Italian homes.
What I adore about this recipe is not just how easy it is to whip up, but also its ability to nourish the soul. The chickpeas provide a lovely creaminess while the pasta adds that perfect heartiness, creating a beautiful balance that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s vegetarian and packed with wholesome ingredients, so you can feel good about every delicious spoonful. Let’s dive in and create this comforting bowl of goodness together!
Ingredients for Pasta e Ceci Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating this delicious pasta e ceci. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 200g of pasta – I usually go for small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni, but any pasta you have on hand will work beautifully!
- 400g canned chickpeas – Make sure to drain and rinse them well to get rid of that canning liquid. It helps keep the dish light and fresh.
- 1 onion, chopped – A medium onion is perfect here; it adds a lovely sweetness as it cooks down.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must! It brings an incredible depth of flavor to the broth.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Use your favorite extra virgin olive oil for that rich, fruity finish.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary – This herb adds a lovely earthy aroma. If you have fresh rosemary, even better—just double the amount!
- 1 liter vegetable broth – You can use homemade if you have it, but store-bought works just fine. It’s all about convenience!
- Salt to taste – Remember to season as you go; it really elevates the dish!
- Pepper to taste – A good crack of black pepper brings everything together perfectly.
These simple ingredients come together to create a comforting, hearty meal that’s sure to impress! Trust me, once you have everything prepped, you’ll be well on your way to a soul-warming bowl of pasta e ceci!
How to Prepare Pasta e Ceci Recipe
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into preparing this delightful pasta e ceci! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting pot of goodness in no time.
- First things first, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want that oil shimmering, but not smoking—just enough to add a lovely flavor base!
- Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Wow, the aroma is already amazing!
- Once the onion and garlic are perfectly sautéed, add the drained chickpeas and dried rosemary to the pot. Stir everything together, letting those flavors mingle for a couple of minutes. You’ll love how fragrant it gets!
- Now it’s time to pour in 1 liter of vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This is where the magic happens, so keep an eye on it!
- When the broth reaches a rolling boil, add in your 200g of pasta. Stir it gently and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, this takes about 8–10 minutes, but check the pasta for that perfect al dente bite!
- As the pasta cooks, don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. It’s a crucial step to elevate all those delicious flavors!
- Once the pasta is cooked to perfection, remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit for a minute to cool down just a tad, then it’s ready to serve! Don’t you just love how easy that was?
Now, grab your favorite bowls and ladle in that steaming pasta e ceci. It’s time to enjoy every comforting bite of this wonderful dish you just created!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this hearty dish ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Hearty and Filling: The combination of pasta and chickpeas makes for a satisfying meal that will keep you full and happy.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, this recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious—good for your body and soul!
- Comfort Food Classic: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of pasta e ceci to wrap you up in cozy flavors; it’s like a hug in a bowl!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs; this dish is a great canvas for your culinary creativity.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is always a win! Everything cooks in one pot, making it super convenient.
Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds)! It’s a recipe that truly delivers on comfort and flavor every single time.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to whip up this delicious pasta e ceci, here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!
- Timing is Key: When cooking the pasta, always check the package instructions for the ideal cooking time. You want it to be al dente, so it holds up well in the broth.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Be generous with salt and pepper! Tasting as you go is crucial. You want to enhance those flavors, so don’t be afraid to adjust to your palate.
- Adjust the Broth: If you like a soupier consistency, feel free to add more vegetable broth towards the end of cooking. Just remember to adjust your seasoning accordingly!
- Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor: If you have fresh herbs on hand, like thyme or parsley, toss some in right at the end for a burst of freshness. It really brightens up the dish!
- Leftover Love: This dish stores well, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch! Just remember that the pasta will continue to absorb the liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating.
- Make It Your Own: Experiment with different pasta shapes or even add in some spinach or kale for an extra veggie boost. The beauty of pasta e ceci is its versatility!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a fantastic pasta e ceci that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!
Variations of Pasta e Ceci
One of the best things about my pasta e ceci recipe is how easily you can make it your own! Here are some fun variations to try, so you can keep things exciting in the kitchen:
- Herb Explosion: Switch up the dried rosemary for other herbs like thyme, oregano, or even a bit of fresh basil added at the end. Each herb brings its own unique flavor profile!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the onion and garlic. It adds a delightful warmth that complements the dish beautifully.
- Veggie Boost: Feel free to include your favorite vegetables! Adding chopped carrots, zucchini, or spinach can enhance the nutrition and make the dish even more colorful.
- Tomato Twist: For a richer flavor, stir in a can of diced tomatoes along with the vegetable broth. It creates a lovely tomatoey base that pairs wonderfully with the chickpeas.
- Cheesy Goodness: If you’re a cheese lover like me, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top just before serving. It adds a creamy, salty finish that’s simply irresistible!
- Protein Power: Want to boost the protein even more? Add in some cooked sausage or diced chicken for a heartier option. Just sauté it with the onion and garlic to infuse those flavors.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! The beauty of pasta e ceci is that it’s incredibly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients that you love. Happy cooking, and enjoy making this dish your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big pot of delicious pasta e ceci and you’ve got some leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat this comforting dish so you can enjoy it again later.
To store your pasta e ceci, let it cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly to keep those flavors fresh!
If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it! Portion the pasta e ceci into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving a little space at the top since it will expand as it freezes. It should be good for about 2–3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is super easy! For the stovetop, simply add the pasta e ceci to a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up as it heats. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through, usually about 5–10 minutes. You want that lovely broth to be bubbling gently!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave! Just place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel (this helps keep it from drying out), and heat for about 1–2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
And there you have it! Enjoy your pasta e ceci whenever you like, without any fuss. It’s just as comforting the next day—if not more so, as those flavors have even more time to meld together. Happy reheating!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for my pasta e ceci recipe. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea!
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 15g
This dish is not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with plant-based goodness! You’ll feel great knowing you’re fueling your body with nutritious ingredients while enjoying every comforting bite. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried chickpeas, just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the dish. It’ll add a lovely texture, but remember to adjust your cooking time accordingly!
What can I serve with pasta e ceci?
This dish is a hearty meal on its own, but if you want to make it even more special, serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. It pairs beautifully with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for about 2–3 months. Just remember to add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it from getting too thick!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, my pasta e ceci is already vegan as long as you skip the cheese topping. You can enjoy it as is, or sprinkle on some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without any dairy!
How can I adjust the thickness of the broth?
If you like a soupier dish, simply add more vegetable broth while cooking. On the flip side, if you prefer it thicker, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid. It’s all about personal preference!
Pasta e Ceci Recipe: 5 Comforting Steps to Cozy Bliss
- Temps Total: 30 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
This is a simple and hearty pasta e ceci recipe, combining pasta and chickpeas in a flavorful broth.
Ingrédients
- 200g of pasta
- 400g canned chickpeas, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 liter vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until soft.
- Add chickpeas and rosemary. Stir to combine.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can use dried chickpeas, soaked overnight.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more or less broth.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 20 minutes
- Catégorie: Main course
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 500mg
- La graisse: 10g
- Graisses Saturées: 1g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 9g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 50g
- La fibre: 10g
- La protéine: 15g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 0mg
Mots-clés: pasta e ceci recipe, chickpea pasta, Italian pasta dish
