Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Recipe

There’s something utterly enchanting about Mediterranean cuisine. Its vibrant colors, wholesome ingredients, and evocative flavors transport us to sunlit coasts and bustling markets. Today, we’re diving into a delightful Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta recipe that promises to bring all those joyous sensations to your home. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh produce, the creativity of cooking, and the joy of family gatherings. Imagine sharing this light, flavorful, and protein-packed pasta at a family dinner, the terracotta-tiled kitchen filled with laughter and the aroma of fresh herbs. It’s the perfect way to bring a touch of Mediterranean magic into your life. Join me, Zynah Maryam, on this culinary adventure!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients:

• 8 oz gluten-free pasta
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Feta cheese, crumbled (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the red onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
4. Stir in the fresh parsley, basil, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
5. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated with the sauce and vegetables.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately, topped with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.

Helpful Tips:

• For added depth: Roast the chickpeas in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil and spices before incorporating them into the dish.
• Substitutions: No fresh herbs on hand? Dried herbs can be used in a pinch – just adjust the quantities to taste.
• Gluten-free pasta: If you’re not strictly gluten-free, you can use your favorite pasta variety. Whole wheat or spelt pasta works beautifully.

Pairings

This Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and a slice of crusty gluten-free bread. For beverages, a glass of sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a light white wine complements the dish perfectly.

At Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen, making every meal a memorable experience. We encourage you to try this Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta recipe and share your results with us. Tag us in your photos, share the recipe with your friends and family, and join the Zynahz community for more delicious adventures. Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter to never miss a culinary tip or inspirational recipe. Let’s make cooking a delightful journey together!