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Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil

Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil


  • Author: Marcus
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Plant-Based, Vegan

Description

Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil is a vibrant and hearty plant-based dish combining tender broccoli, protein-rich chickpeas, and pasta tossed in fragrant garlic-infused extra virgin olive oil. Quick and easy to make under 30 minutes, this recipe balances comforting flavors and light textures perfect for a nourishing dinner that adapts to various dietary preferences.


Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • Fresh parsley (optional), chopped, for garnish
  • Fresh garlic cloves, 4-5 thinly sliced

Pantry Staples

  • 8 oz medium or short pasta (penne or fusilli) or gluten-free pasta of choice
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (natural), adjust to taste
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli and Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. When there are about five minutes left, add the broccoli florets to cook alongside the pasta. Drain pasta and broccoli together, reserving about one cup of pasta water for the sauce.
  2. Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil: While pasta cooks, heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced garlic cloves and cook gently, stirring often, until golden and fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic to prevent bitterness.
  3. Combine Chickpeas and Seasonings: Add drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet with garlic olive oil. Stir and warm for a few minutes to let chickpeas absorb flavors and crisp slightly. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Toss Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce: Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with chickpeas and garlic olive oil. Pour in a little reserved pasta water to help coat everything with a silky sauce. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  5. Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or extra olive oil if desired. Finish with a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a fresh herbal note. Serve immediately while warm for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for a vibrant natural flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water to create a smooth sauce without heaviness.
  • Do not overcook broccoli; add near the end to keep it crisp and bright green.
  • Slice garlic thinly rather than mincing for an even, mellow infusion of flavor.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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