Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil

Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil

  • Author: Eric
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Plant-Based, Gluten Free (if gluten-free pasta used), Vegan

Description

This Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil is a quick, wholesome, and flavorful plant-based dinner combining tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, hearty chickpeas, and a fragrant garlic olive oil sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it offers a nutritious and adaptable meal that suits busy weeknights or relaxed weekend feasts with a comforting yet fresh taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 8 oz pasta of your choice (whole wheat, gluten-free, or traditional)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Chickpeas and Sauce

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely minced or thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (natural), optional
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional)
  • Nutritional yeast (plant-based), optional for cheesy hint
  • Toasted seeds, optional

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. About 3 minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to cook until tender but still crisp. Drain pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Garlic Olive Oil Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely minced or sliced garlic cloves and gently sauté until golden and fragrant, taking care not to burn them. Stir in the red chili flakes if using for a subtle spicy note.
  3. Combine Chickpeas and Flavorings: Add the drained chickpeas to the pan with the garlic olive oil. Stir well to coat the chickpeas in the oil and garlic mixture. Warm through and season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine all flavors.
  4. Mix Pasta and Broccoli with Sauce: Transfer the cooked pasta and broccoli into the chickpea and garlic olive oil pan. Toss gently over low heat to meld the flavors and coat the pasta thoroughly. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, or any optional garnishes desired.

Notes

  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best aroma and smoothness.
  • Do not overcook broccoli to maintain its crunch and vibrant color.
  • Reserve some pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce if needed.
  • Cook garlic slowly on medium-low to avoid bitterness and maximize flavor.
  • Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice at the end for perfect balance.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Boiling and Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 9 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: broccoli pasta, chickpea pasta, garlic olive oil pasta, plant-based dinner, vegan pasta, gluten-free pasta, quick pasta recipes

Find it online: https://smartmealsguide.com/broccoli-chickpea-pasta-with-garlic-olive-oil/