Name: Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 250g pasta; 400g chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 500g cherry tomatoes, halved; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 60ml olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; 240ml vegetable broth; Fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons Nutritional Yeast (optional)

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Ever craved a comforting bowl of pasta that’s bursting with flavor and ready in minutes? Look no further! This Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta is a delicious and easy dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch. The combination of tender pasta, roasted chickpeas, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic garlic creates a symphony of tastes and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Inspired by the simple, hearty meals of the Mediterranean, this recipe is a true celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Let’s dive into the magic of this delightful pasta dish!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta

This recipe is a guaranteed winner! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with it:

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: Roasted garlic and chickpeas create a deep, savory flavor.
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, pantry-staple ingredients.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite veggies and herbs.
Wholesome & Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup than traditional pasta dishes.
Aromatic Delight: The aroma of roasting garlic fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Comfort Food Reimagined: A healthier and lighter take on classic comfort food.

Ingredients Needed for Garlic Roasted Chickpea Tomato Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable pasta dish. Remember, using fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor even further!

Pasta: 250g / 8.8 oz (Use your favorite shape – penne, rotini, or fusilli work well.)
Chickpeas: 400g / 14 oz can, drained and rinsed.
Cherry Tomatoes: 500g / 17.6 oz, halved.
Garlic: 6 cloves, minced.
Olive Oil: 60ml / ¼ cup.
Dried Oregano: 1 tsp.
Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ tsp (or more, to taste). Toast lightly to unlock the flavor.
Vegetable Broth: 240ml / 1 cup.
Fresh Basil: A handful, chopped.
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
Nutritional Yeast (optional): 2 tablespoons for a cheesy flavor.

For the best flavor, use good-quality olive oil. You can usually find fresh basil at your local farmers’ market.

Essential Equipment List for Perfect Pasta

Having the right tools can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Bowl: For tossing the chickpeas and tomatoes.
Roasting Pan: A 9×13 inch pan is ideal for even roasting.
Large Pot: To cook the pasta.
Colander: To drain the pasta.
Large Skillet or Pan: To combine the pasta and roasted vegetables.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy

Garlic roasted chickpeas and tomatoes tossed with pasta.

Scale up this recipe for a family gathering, or halve it for a cozy solo meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Delicious Results

Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta that will impress everyone at the table!

Step 1: Prepare the Roasted Chickpea and Tomato mixture

Preheat your oven to 200°C / 400°F.
In a large bowl, toss the drained chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, and minced garlic with olive oil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 2: Roasting Perfection

Spread the chickpea and tomato mixture in a single layer on a roasting pan.
Roast for 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized, and the chickpeas are lightly browned and crispy.
Pro Tip: For extra depth of flavor, deglaze the roasting pan with a splash of vegetable broth after roasting. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

3rd Step: Cook the Pasta

While the vegetables are roasting, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

In a large skillet or pan, combine the roasted chickpea and tomato mixture with the cooked pasta.
Add the vegetable broth and toss to combine. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and nutritional yeast (if using).
Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil, if desired.

Tips for Success with Garlic Roasted Chickpea Tomato Pasta

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta turns out perfectly every time.

Don’t overcrowd the roasting pan: Overcrowding will steam the vegetables instead of roasting them. Use two pans if necessary.
Toast the spices: Toasting the oregano and red pepper flakes in a dry pan for a minute or two before adding them to the chickpea mixture will enhance their flavor.
Salt the pasta water: This is crucial for flavorful pasta. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water before adding the pasta.
Reserve pasta water: The starchy pasta water helps to create a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
Adjust seasoning: Taste the pasta before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Variations & Substitutions for Pasta perfection

Want to mix things up? Here are some delicious variations and substitutions to try with your Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta.

Add vegetables: Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant would be delicious additions.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of cashew cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
Use different herbs: Thyme, rosemary, or parsley would all work well in place of basil.
Add protein: Toss in some grilled tofu or tempeh for an extra boost of protein.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Garlic Roasted Chickpea Tomato Pasta

Make it a complete meal! Here are some delicious serving suggestions and pairings for your Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta.

Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Pair with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
Serve alongside roasted asparagus or broccoli.
Enjoy with a refreshing glass of iced tea or sparkling water.

Health Benefits of Pasta dish

This Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its health benefits:

Chickpeas: Excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health.
Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which may help protect against certain diseases.
Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and potential cardiovascular benefits.
Basil: Contains vitamins A and K, as well as antioxidants.
Whole Grain Pasta (if used): Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Fiber aids digestion, while protein fuels you throughout the day.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta for maximum freshness and flavor.

Storage: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to prevent spoilage.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent splattering.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pasta

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta. Hopefully, the answers can help you on your journey to making your best dish.

Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, you can use canned diced tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes tend to have a sweeter flavor when roasted. If using canned diced tomatoes, drain them well before adding them to the roasting pan.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta. There are many great gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

How do I avoid soggy pasta?

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente and don’t overcook it. Also, avoid adding too much vegetable broth to the skillet. Add it gradually until the pasta reaches your desired consistency.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Of course! While nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor, you can also add grated Parmesan cheese (or a vegetarian alternative) to the pasta before serving.

Can I freeze this pasta?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that the pasta may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: Approximately 350
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 15g

Please note that the exact stats need a nutrition calculator.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore: Plant-Powered Delights

Craving more tasty and easy plant-based meals? Explore these other delicious recipes!

Taco Spiced Chickpea and Rice Skillet – A flavorful and filling one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Chickpea Tomato Basil Salad – A refreshing and vibrant salad that’s perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad – A delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Conclusion

This Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s sure to become a weeknight staple. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece!

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Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta