Craving a comforting, flavorful pasta dish that's also surprisingly healthy and vegan? Look no further than this Creamy Chickpea Pasta recipe! This vibrant and satisfying meal swaps out heavy cream for a creamy, naturally-delicious chickpea base, resulting in a luxuriously smooth sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite pasta. Forget complicated techniques and long ingredient lists; this recipe uses simple pantry staples to create a restaurant-worthy experience in minutes. It's the perfect weeknight dinner solution, equally appealing to seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.
Rich in protein and fiber, this Creamy Chickpea Pasta is both filling and nutritious, offering a guilt-free indulgence. The subtle, earthy notes of the chickpeas blend beautifully with bright lemon juice and garlic, creating a depth of flavor that's simply irresistible. Ready to transform your pasta night? Let's dive into the easy step-by-step instructions below and create this delicious and healthy meal together.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Knife
- Blender
Ingredients
- Oil
- Celery
- Carrot
- Onion
- Bacon
- Bacon rind
- Rosemary
- White wine
- Pre-cooked chickpeas
- Salt
- Pepper
- Tomato puree
- Pasta
- Tomato concentrate
- Pasta water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Vegetables and Bacon
- Start with a nice sauté. Add oil to the pan along with celery, carrot, and onion. Let the sauté sweat a bit, but keep mixing, otherwise it will burn.
- Cut the bacon. First, cut off the rind, but don't throw it away. Add the rind to the sauté.
- Cut the rest of the bacon into thin strips and add it to the sauté. Allow it to brown and flavor it with chopped rosemary. Cook for a few minutes.
- When the bacon is well browned, deglaze with some white wine. Once the alcohol has evaporated, add the pre-cooked chickpeas. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2. Simmer and Develop Flavor
- Add tomato puree to the mixture and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the pasta to the sauce. Add the tomato concentrate.
Step 3. Create Creamy Consistency and Finish Pasta
- Thin out the sauce with pasta water and remove the bacon rind.
- Blend some of the chickpeas to create a creamy consistency. Add it back to the pan and stir.
- When the pasta is al dente, transfer it to the saucepan and stir.
- Check the liquid level and add more if needed.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Plate the pasta, garnish with chopped rosemary and black pepper.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Keep mixing the sauté to prevent burning.
- Don't throw away the bacon rind; add it to the sauté for extra flavor.
- To make the dish extra creamy, blend some of the chickpeas.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 80-90g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you enjoy, from spaghetti and penne to rotini or even gluten-free options.
2. What if I don't have nutritional yeast?
Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor, but you can omit it or substitute with a pinch of parmesan cheese (for non-vegan) or a teaspoon of onion powder for a savory boost.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Creamy Chickpea Pasta recipe proves that healthy and delicious can coexist beautifully. Enjoy this satisfying and surprisingly simple meal anytime you crave a comforting pasta dish. We hope you'll share this recipe with your friends and family – happy cooking!