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Orecchiette with Chickpeas and Tomatoes

Orecchiette with Chickpeas and Tomatoes

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

Description

Orecchiette with Chickpeas and Tomatoes is a wholesome and flavorful dish combining tender ear-shaped pasta with protein-rich chickpeas, fresh cherry tomatoes, and creamy plant-based cheese. Enhanced with smoked turkey bacon, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil, this colorful meal offers balanced flavors and textures that are comforting and fresh. Quick to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, it is a nutritious, filling option that makes an excellent dinner choice.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 240g orecchiette pasta
  • Salt for pasta water
  • Reserved pasta water (about 1 cup)

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 250g cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 100g smoked turkey bacon, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches

  • 1/2 cup shredded plant-based cheese (e.g., creamy mild variety)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orecchiette and cook until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water. Set pasta aside.
  2. Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until crisp and golden, releasing a smoky aroma. Remove some of the rendered fat if excessive, leaving enough for sautéing.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until tomatoes soften and form a juicy sauce.
  4. Add Chickpeas and Seasonings: Stir drained chickpeas into the tomato mixture, coating them well. Splash in apple cider vinegar and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce to add tang and depth. If desired, add crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle heat.
  5. Combine Pasta and Finish: Return cooked orecchiette to the skillet and gently stir to combine all ingredients. If the sauce is too dry, add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen. Stir in shredded plant-based cheese and chopped fresh basil until creamy and fragrant. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to create a silky, well-coated sauce.
  • Use ripe cherry tomatoes for brightness; canned tomatoes are less vibrant.
  • Add chickpeas later to prevent overcooking and maintain texture.
  • Cook smoked turkey bacon slowly to render maximum flavor evenly.
  • Season at multiple stages to build complex flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: orecchiette, chickpeas, tomatoes, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, easy dinner, healthy pasta, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://smartmealsguide.com/orecchiette-with-chickpeas-and-tomatoes/