Name: Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 250g (8.8 oz) Pasta (penne, rotini, fusilli); 300g (10.5 oz) Broccoli Florets (fresh or frozen); 1 can (400g / 14 oz) Chickpeas, drained & rinsed; 4–5 cloves Garlic, minced; 60ml (¼ cup) Olive Oil; ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes; 60ml (¼ cup) Vegetable Broth; 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice; 30g (¼ cup) Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional); Salt & Black Pepper to taste

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Ever crave a dish that’s both comforting and packed with nutrients? This Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil is your answer! Silky pasta coated in a flavorful garlic olive oil, tender broccoli florets, and protein-rich chickpeas come together in a symphony of textures and tastes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Inspired by simple Mediterranean flavors, this dish is proof that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious. Let’s dive into the magic of this Broccoli Chickpea Pasta!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Chickpea Pasta

This Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil is a winner for so many reasons:

Ready in Under 30 Minutes: A speedy meal for busy weeknights.
Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
Budget-Friendly: An economical way to enjoy a satisfying and healthy meal.
Packed with Nutrients: Broccoli and chickpeas provide essential vitamins and fiber.
Customizable: Easily adapt to your preferences and dietary needs.
Deliciously Flavorful: The garlic-infused olive oil adds incredible depth of flavor.
Versatile: Serve it hot or cold, as a main course or a side dish.
Easy Cleanup: Minimal dishes mean less time in the kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Broccoli Chickpea Pasta. Remember, quality ingredients make a difference! For best flavor, use fresh garlic and good quality olive oil.

Pasta: 250g / 8.8 oz (Any shape, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli).
Broccoli Florets: 300g / 10.5 oz (Fresh or frozen; if using frozen, thaw slightly). Pick firm, bright green florets, ensuring they aren’t yellowing.
Chickpeas: 1 can (400g / 14 oz), drained and rinsed.
Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced.
Olive Oil: 60ml / ¼ cup (Extra virgin olive oil is recommended).
Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (Adjust to your spice preference).
Vegetable Broth: 60ml / ¼ cup.
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (Freshly squeezed is best).
Grated Parmesan Cheese: 30g / ¼ cup (Optional, for serving).
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

For the spices, consider gently toasting them in a dry pan for a minute to unlock their aromas and deepen their flavor.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable!

Large Pot: For cooking the pasta. A heavy pot will retain heat well.
Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: For sautéing the garlic and broccoli. A 12-inch skillet provides ample space.
Colander: For draining the pasta and chickpeas.
Garlic Press (Optional): For mincing garlic quickly. If you don’t have a garlic press, finely mince the garlic with a knife.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy

Scale up for a larger gathering, or halve the recipe for a delicious solo meal!

Broccoli chickpea pasta with garlic olive oil.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-worthy Broccoli Chickpea Pasta in your own kitchen. Remember to read through the entire recipe before you start cooking!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Pro Tip: Salting the pasta water is crucial for flavorful pasta.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Broccoli

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add Chickpeas and Broth

Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet with the broccoli.
Pour in the vegetable broth and lemon juice.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Too dry? Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the broccoli and chickpea mixture.
Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).

For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top.

CHECK OUT: Easy 30-Minute Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir-Fry– Craving an easy weeknight meal? Try this simple and delicious stir-fry.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to help you create the perfect Broccoli Chickpea Pasta every time!

Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Aim for tender-crisp broccoli that still has a bit of bite. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic, which can lack flavor.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Be sure to taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.
Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps to create a creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
Toast the Red Pepper Flakes: Toasting the red pepper flakes briefly in the olive oil before adding the garlic helps to release their flavor and aroma.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations and substitutions to try!

Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
Use Different Vegetables: Substitute the broccoli with other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
Make it Creamy: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan alternative.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Broccoli Chickpea Pasta

This Broccoli Chickpea Pasta is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad or a zesty Italian salad.
Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that complements the garlic flavor of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables, such as carrots and parsnips, add a touch of sweetness and earthiness.
Non-Alcoholic Pairing: A sparkling lemonade or iced tea.

Health Benefits

This Broccoli Chickpea Pasta is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Broccoli is a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber. Chickpeas are rich in protein and fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied. Olive oil provides healthy fats, and garlic has antioxidant properties.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Broccoli Chickpea Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente and drain it well. Toss it with a little olive oil after draining to prevent sticking.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Be sure to thaw it slightly before adding it to the skillet.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet.

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Serving Size: 1 cup
Carbs: 50g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g

Exact nutritional values will vary based on ingredient brands and quantities.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more easy and flavorful recipes? Try these other gems!

Taco Spiced Chickpea and Rice Skillet – A flavorful and protein-packed skillet meal, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad – A refreshing and vibrant salad, ideal for a light lunch or side dish.
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles – A comforting and easy one-pan meal with tender chicken and flavorful noodles.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil is a fast, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whip it up tonight, and let us know how it goes! This dish is simple, adaptable, and guaranteed to please.

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Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil