Pasta e ceci – pasta with chickpeas – is a beloved Italian staple known for its hearty flavor and satisfying simplicity. This one-pot wonder delivers a rich, tomato-infused broth with tender chickpeas and perfectly cooked pasta in just 30 minutes. It’s a meal that embodies rustic Italian cooking: unfussy, deeply flavorful, and incredibly comforting.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
The beauty of pasta e ceci lies in its ease and versatility. Everything cooks together, allowing the pasta to absorb maximum flavor from the broth. Beyond convenience, it’s a surprisingly nutritious meal, packing protein from the chickpeas and fiber from optional leafy greens. This is not just a quick dinner; it’s a dish that speaks to the heart of Italian home cooking.
Key Ingredients and Their Role
- Pasta (Ditalini): The classic choice, but small shells or elbow macaroni work well too. Using a small pasta shape is ideal for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas offer convenience, though dried chickpeas are a viable alternative.
- Tomato Paste: The heart of the broth’s depth. A few tablespoons create an intensely flavorful base without relying on pre-made sauces.
- Broth (Chicken or Vegetable): The liquid backbone of the dish; choose low-sodium to control the final seasoning.
How to Make Perfect Pasta e Ceci
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pot over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic, rosemary, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant.
- Bloom Tomato Paste: Stir in tomato paste and cook until darkened and sticking to the bottom of the pot; this deepens the flavor significantly.
- Simmer & Cook Pasta: Add broth and salt, bringing to a boil. Stir in chickpeas and ditalini pasta. Cook until the pasta is al dente, stirring to prevent sticking.
- Add Greens (Optional): Stir in chopped kale or escarole during the last two minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with grated Pecorino Romano cheese, if desired.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, but the pasta absorbs broth over time. Reheating with a splash of broth or water restores the desired consistency. Pair this dish with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Pasta e ceci is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary shortcut to comfort, proving that the most satisfying meals don’t always require hours of work.
Nutritional Information (per serving): Calories: 633, Fat: 22.6g, Carbs: 86.1g, Protein: 24.4g. This dish is shellfish-free, tree-nut-free, balanced, alcohol-free, sulphite-free, pescatarian, pork-free, high-fiber, red-meat-free, fish-free, egg-free, peanut-free, and soy-free.
