Mediterranean Chickpea Ziti Recipe

Imagine a day where the aroma of herbs and spices fill your home, the kind of scents that draw your family into the kitchen, eagerly awaiting a taste of what’s to come. This Mediterranean Chickpea Ziti isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a culinary journey that brings the vibrant colors and bold flavors of the Mediterranean to your dining table. Perfect for a mid-week dinner or a special family gathering, this dish offers a delightful way to bond over good food and even better conversations.

Ingredients

• 12 oz ziti noodles
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup pitted olives, sliced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Mix well.
6. Add the sliced olives, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Combine the cooked ziti noodles with the chickpea-tomato mixture in the skillet. Toss until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
8. Transfer the ziti mixture to a large baking dish. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving.

Helpful Tips

If you’re new to cooking Mediterranean dishes, here are a few tips to make this recipe even easier:

• Feel free to use any type of pasta you have on hand if ziti is not available.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• If you’re not a fan of olives, substitute with sun-dried tomatoes or capers for a different flavor profile.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those with dietary restrictions, consider these substitutions:

• Use gluten-free pasta if you’re sensitive to gluten.
• Replace feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative if you’re dairy-free.

Complementary Dishes and Drinks

This Mediterranean Chickpea Ziti pairs wonderfully with a fresh Greek salad and a nice glass of chilled white wine. For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water infused with lemon and mint.