Easy Orecchiette with Chickpeas and Tomatoes Recipe

Orecchiette with Chickpeas and Tomatoes is a quick and tasty pasta dish featuring small ear-shaped noodles tossed with tender chickpeas, juicy tomatoes, and fresh herbs. This vibrant, plant-based recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and packs a flavorful punch with simple ingredients that blend beautifully for a comforting and nutritious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Nutritious plant-based flavors: Loaded with protein-rich chickpeas and fresh tomatoes for a well-rounded meal.
• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh produce, making it budget-friendly and easy.
• Versatile and customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite herbs and vegetables.
• Deliciously satisfying: Combines hearty pasta texture with vibrant, juicy flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Orecchiette with Chickpeas and Tomatoes recipe plays a crucial role, from the creamy texture of chickpeas to the bright acidity of fresh tomatoes, creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.

• Orecchiette pasta: The unique ear-shaped pasta captures the sauce beautifully with every bite.
• Canned chickpeas: Provides a hearty, protein-packed component with a creamy texture.
• Cherry tomatoes: Adds a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• Garlic cloves: Infuses the recipe with aromatic, savory depth.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Brings a rich, fruity richness while helping to sauté the ingredients.
• Fresh basil leaves: Offers a fragrant, herbal brightness that lifts the flavors.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Adds a savory umami boost with a slight tang.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional spice for a gentle kick of heat.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential to enhance all other flavors.
• Lemon juice (natural): Adds a zesty freshness to balance the richness.

Variations for Orecchiette with Chickpeas and Tomatoes

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to tailor it to your tastes or what you have at home. Here are some easy ways to switch it up and keep it exciting.

• Add smoked turkey slices: Toss in for a smoky, savory protein boost that complements the tomatoes.
• Swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes: For a more intense, concentrated tomato flavor.
• Include spinach or kale: Stir in leafy greens for added nutrients and color.
• Use smoked turkey bacon: Crisp and chop for a crunchy, smoky addition.
• Incorporate olives or capers: Bring salty, briny notes to balance the sweetness.

How to Make Orecchiette with Chickpeas and Tomatoes

Step 1: Cook the Orecchiette

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orecchiette pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. Add halved cherry tomatoes, cooking until they soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Chickpeas and Seasonings

Stir in rinsed chickpeas along with vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet with the tomato and chickpea mixture. Toss well to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Basil and Lemon

Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (natural) for brightness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.

Pro Tips for Making Orecchiette with Chickpeas and Tomatoes

• Use fresh cherry tomatoes: Their natural sweetness really enhances the sauce compared to canned varieties.
• Reserve pasta water: The starchiness helps the sauce bind to the orecchiette and adds creaminess without extra fat.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep it al dente for the best chew and texture contrast with tender chickpeas.
• Stir gently: To avoid breaking the pasta and maintain a beautiful presentation.
• Add fresh herbs last: This keeps their flavor bright and aromatic without wilting.

How to Serve Orecchiette with Chickpeas and Tomatoes

Garnishes

Top with freshly chopped basil, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette or crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the sauce and round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate the pasta in shallow bowls and add a few whole cherry tomatoes and basil leaves on top for an inviting, restaurant-style look. Consider serving with lemon wedges for an extra fresh squeeze at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors deepen as they sit, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent dryness. Microwave reheating works well if covered loosely to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use other pasta shapes instead of orecchiette?

Absolutely! Small, sturdy pasta like penne, rigatoni, or cavatappi work well, but orecchiette’s cup shape is perfect for holding the chickpea and tomato sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for a plant-based diet?

Yes! This dish is naturally plant-based and relies on wholesome ingredients like chickpeas, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic herbs.

Can I add protein like smoked turkey slices?

Yes, smoked turkey slices make a delicious addition for those who want a hearty, smoky flavor, simply stir them in during cooking.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat is mild and controlled by how much red pepper flakes you add. You can skip them or increase the amount to your preferred spice level.

What can I substitute for fresh basil?

If you don’t have fresh basil, try fresh parsley or oregano for a different herbal note, though basil’s sweetness is unique to this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This easy, flavorful Orecchiette with Chickpeas and Tomatoes recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a satisfying meal any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking solo or feeding a family, its simple ingredients and bold flavors make it a true kitchen favorite worth repeating again and again.

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