Oh my goodness, let me tell you about pasta e ceci! This hearty Italian dish is like a warm hug on a cold day. I remember the first time I tried it at my friend’s family dinner—it was pure comfort in a bowl! The combination of tender pasta and creamy chickpeas is not only delightful but also so satisfying. It’s incredibly simple to make, which means you can whip it up any night of the week. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be hooked! The best part? It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or just a quiet night in. Whether you’re looking for something quick or a dish to share with friends, pasta e ceci always delivers that warm, inviting vibe we all crave.
Ingredients List
- 200g pasta
- 400g canned chickpeas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 liter vegetable broth
How to Prepare Pasta e Ceci
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! First things first, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a nice, sturdy pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until they’re soft and aromatic—oh, the smell is heavenly!
Next, add your canned chickpeas and the teaspoon of rosemary. Give everything a good stir and let it mingle for another couple of minutes. Then, pour in 1 liter of vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Once boiling, it’s time to add your 200g of pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to taste it along the way! If you like it a bit thicker, you can adjust by adding more broth or even a splash of water. Finally, season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve it hot, and enjoy every comforting bite of this delightful dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time (30 minutes total) – Perfect for weeknight dinners!
- Hearty and filling – It’s a meal that truly satisfies your hunger.
- Full of flavor with minimal ingredients – You don’t need a pantry full of stuff to whip this up!
- Vegetarian-friendly – A great option for everyone at the table, whether they’re plant-based or not!
- Budget-friendly meal option – Chickpeas and pasta are easy on the wallet, making this a win for your budget.
Tips for Success
When it comes to perfecting your pasta e ceci, there are a few little tips that can make a big difference! First off, don’t rush the sautéing process. Allowing the onion and garlic to become soft and fragrant really builds the base flavor—so take your time with that step!
One common pitfall I’ve encountered is cooking the pasta for too long. You want it al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. If you overcook it, the pasta can become mushy in the broth. So, keep an eye on that timer!
Also, I highly recommend trying whole grain pasta for added health benefits. It adds a lovely nuttiness and extra fiber, making the dish even more satisfying. And don’t be shy about adjusting the seasoning. Taste as you go! A pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can elevate the flavors beautifully.
Lastly, if you find the dish a bit thick for your liking, just add a splash more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Cooking should be fun and flexible, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Variations of Pasta e Ceci
Now, let’s talk about how you can jazz up your pasta e ceci! The beauty of this dish is its versatility, and I love experimenting with different ingredients to make it my own. One of my favorite ways to switch things up is by adding seasonal vegetables. Think spinach, kale, or even diced zucchini! Just toss them in when you add the chickpeas, and they’ll cook down beautifully.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying various herbs. Fresh basil or parsley can brighten it up, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick! I sometimes like to swap out rosemary for thyme or oregano—it brings a whole new flavor profile to the dish.
For those who want to boost the protein, you can easily incorporate cooked chicken, sausage, or even tofu. Just sauté it along with the onion and garlic to infuse those flavors throughout the dish. It turns a simple pasta and chickpea meal into a hearty feast!
And hey, if you’re a fan of cheese, don’t forget about adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or Pecorino on top just before serving! It melts into the hot dish and creates a creamy layer that takes it to another level. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers of pasta e ceci! First off, once it’s cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This will help keep all those lovely flavors intact and prevent any drying out in the fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days—trust me, it’ll still be so good!
When it comes to reheating, I’ve found the best method is to warm it up on the stovetop. Just add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up a bit, since it can thicken as it sits. Heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. This way, you’ll maintain that comforting texture and flavor without overcooking the pasta!
If you’re in a hurry and prefer the microwave, that works too! Just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it (to avoid splatters!), and heat it in short intervals, stirring in between. Again, adding a little liquid helps keep it from drying out. And there you go—easy peasy! Enjoy your warm, cozy bowl of pasta e ceci all over again!
Nutritional Information
Let’s dive into the nutritional goodness of pasta e ceci! This dish is not just comfort food; it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s a rough estimate based on the ingredients I typically use:
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use and any variations you decide to make. But overall, pasta e ceci is a nutritious, filling meal that’s both satisfying and healthy! Enjoy every spoonful knowing you’re treating yourself right!
FAQ Section
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried chickpeas, just remember to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the dish. It’ll take a bit more time, but the flavor is fantastic!
What should I serve with this dish?
Pasta e ceci is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, a simple side salad or some crusty bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth!
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make pasta e ceci gluten-free, just swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. There are some great options made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas that work beautifully!
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make this dish ahead of time! Just store it in the fridge, and it will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just remember to add a splash of broth when reheating!
What are some good toppings for pasta e ceci?
Oh, toppings can really elevate this dish! I love a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese on top for a savory kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a vibrant touch, and a drizzle of good olive oil brings everything together beautifully. You can also add some red pepper flakes for a little heat!
Pasta e Ceci: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Comforting Dish
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty Italian dish made with pasta and chickpeas.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 400g canned chickpeas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 liter vegetable broth
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add chickpeas and rosemary, stir for a few minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth.
- Top with grated cheese if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pasta e ceci, Italian chickpea pasta, vegetarian pasta dish