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–+ servings

Chickpea Pesto Pasta

A creamy and vibrant pasta dish featuring fresh basil pesto and chickpeas, perfect for busy nights or relaxing weekends.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto

  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves, packed Ensure they are fresh and bright green.
  • 1/3 cup Pine Nuts, toasted Adds a buttery, slightly sweet flavour.
  • 2-3 cloves Garlic, peeled and chopped Adjust to your preference for aroma.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated Use good quality for best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Add more if needed for consistency.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed Brightens the pesto.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt, or to taste Enhances all the flavours.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground, or to taste Adds subtle warmth.

For the Pasta and Chickpeas

  • 1 pound Pasta of your favourite shape Rotini, fusilli, penne, or farfalle are great choices.
  • 1 can Canned Chickpeas (15 ounces), rinsed and drained Adds creamy texture and plant-based protein.
  • 1 cup Reserved Pasta Water Helps the pesto emulsify and cling to the pasta.

Optional Garnishes

  • Extra Parmesan cheese Sprinkle on top.
  • Fresh basil leaves To brighten the dish.
  • Red pepper flakes For a hint of spice.
  • Toasted pine nuts For additional crunch.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain it but save about a cup of the pasta water.
  • In a blender or food processor, combine the basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until you have a creamy pesto.

Combining

  • In a large bowl, combine the warm pasta, chickpeas, and pesto. Add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • Toss everything together and enjoy!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of water.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 80gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 500mgFiber: 10gSugar: 4g
Keyword Chickpea Pesto Pasta, Easy Dinner, Pasta Recipe, Quick Meal, Vegetarian Pasta
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