The Story of Spinach Chickpea Pasta Delight
When I first created Spinach Chickpea Pasta Delight, I wanted something quick and satisfying that still packed a punch with flavor. It was one of those busy weeknights, and I didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. So, I reached for a can of chickpeas, some baby spinach, and a box of chickpea pasta, and the idea for Spinach Chickpea Pasta Delight was born. Simple ingredients, but when combined, they turned into something so much more.
A Burst of Flavor
What makes Spinach Chickpea Pasta Delight special is the combination of textures and flavors. The chickpeas, when sautéed in olive oil, become golden and crispy, adding a delightful crunch. The fresh spinach brings a vibrant color and earthy flavor, while the lemon zest and juice brighten the whole dish with a burst of freshness. Every time I take a bite, I’m reminded of how satisfying and comforting healthy food can be.
My Favorite Weeknight Go-To
I love how versatile Spinach Chickpea Pasta Delight is. You can switch up the pasta or even throw in some other veggies depending on what’s in your fridge. Sometimes, I add a handful of kale or a sprinkle of sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth. The Pecorino cheese adds just the right amount of creaminess, tying all the ingredients together perfectly. It’s my go-to dish when I want something nutritious yet indulgent.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing a meal with loved ones, Spinach Chickpea Pasta Delight is always a hit. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight, but special enough to serve when friends come over. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) make an excellent lunch the next day. Every time I prepare this dish, I feel like I’ve found that perfect balance between convenience and taste.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Spinach Chickpea Pasta Delight
- Consistency of Chickpea Pasta: Chickpea pasta tends to be more delicate than traditional pasta, so be mindful not to overcook it. Aim for al dente (firm to the bite) for the best texture.
- Crispy Chickpeas: For extra crispy chickpeas, make sure they are well-drained and dry before sautéing. This prevents them from steaming and ensures they brown nicely
- Garlic Fragrance: Be careful when adding garlic to the pan. It should cook for only about 30 seconds to avoid burning. Burnt garlic can turn bitter, affecting the overall flavor of the dish.
- Fresh Lemon Flavor: Using both lemon zest and juice ensures the dish has a vibrant, fresh citrus kick. If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, reduce the amount of zest.
- Balance the Salt: Pecorino Romano is naturally salty, so adjust the amount of added sea salt accordingly to prevent over-salting the dish.
- Spinach Substitutes: If using heartier greens like kale or arugula, allow for a slightly longer cook time to ensure they wilt and soften properly.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a plant-based alternative (e.g., coconut cream or almond milk) before incorporating the spinach.
- Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prep. You can prepare all components separately and then toss them together right before serving. Chickpeas can be crisped in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Spinach Chickpea Pasta Delight
Dive into this delightful Spinach Chickpea Pasta, a quick and easy recipe bursting with fresh flavors! With vibrant spinach, zesty lemon, and crispy chickpeas, this dish is ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, this pasta is sure to become a family favorite. Inspired by the simplicity of everyday cooking, this recipe is both nutritious and delicious. Get ready to impress your taste buds!
4
plates5
minutes15
minutes288
kcal20
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Pasta Base
8 ounces rotini made from chickpeas
- Cooking Essentials
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Protein & Flavor
1 can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Citrus & Greens
Juice and zest from one lemon
1 cup fresh baby spinach leaves, roughly torn
- Cheese & Herbs
1/4 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese (plus extra for serving)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Boil the chickpea rotini in a large pot of salted water until al dente according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Drain using a fine mesh strainer and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the drained garbanzo beans and sauté them until they become crispy and golden brown, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, sea salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the lemon juice and zest. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and mix well.
- Toss in the torn baby spinach leaves and grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts slightly and everything is well combined (about 2-3 minutes).
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and additional Pecorino cheese before serving.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- large pot
- fine mesh strainer
- large skillet
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 288kcal
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 17g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 7mg
- Sodium: 745mg
- Potassium: 83mg
- Fiber: 9g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 937IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 125mg
- Iron: 6mg
FAQs- Spinach Chickpea Pasta Delight
Can I use canned chickpeas directly without sautéing them?
Yes, you can use canned chickpeas as they are already cooked. However, sautéing them adds a nice crispy texture and deepens the flavor, so it’s highly recommended.
What other types of pasta can I use?
You can substitute chickpea rotini with whole wheat, gluten-free, or even lentil pasta for a different texture. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the Pecorino Romano cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan parmesan alternative. You’ll still get the cheesy, savory flavor.
How do I prevent my garlic from burning?
To avoid burning, make sure to add the garlic to medium heat, and stir it constantly for no more than 30 seconds. You can also lower the heat just before adding it.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using chickpea pasta. Just ensure that any alternative ingredients you use (like nutritional yeast or vegan cheese) are also gluten-free.
