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Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil

Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil


  • Author: Kevin
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Plant-Based, Gluten-Free option available

Description

Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal combining tender whole wheat pasta, crisp broccoli florets, and protein-rich chickpeas in a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil sauce. Enhanced with a touch of lemon juice and red pepper flakes, this vibrant dish is perfect for busy weeknights and versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta (or preferred variety)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Protein and Sauce

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Seasonings and Finishing Touches

  • 2 tablespoons natural lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pasta and broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to blanch until crisp-tender. Drain both together, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
  2. Sauté garlic in olive oil: While the pasta cooks, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and gently sauté until golden and fragrant, taking care not to burn it for a rich, aromatic flavor.
  3. Add chickpeas and seasonings: Stir in the drained chickpeas, allowing them to warm and absorb the garlic-infused olive oil. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, adjusting seasoning to taste for balanced flavor.
  4. Combine pasta, broccoli, and sauce: Transfer the drained pasta and broccoli into the skillet with the chickpeas and garlic olive oil. Toss gently to coat evenly. If the mixture is dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help flavors meld.
  5. Finish with lemon and parsley: Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze fresh natural lemon juice over the pasta. Toss once more and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for fuller flavor.
  • Do not overcook broccoli; keep it crisp-tender.
  • Reserve pasta water to enhance sauce creaminess naturally.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually to maintain a balanced taste.
  • Cook pasta al dente to preserve texture and help sauce adherence.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing and Boiling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 9 g
  • Protein: 13 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: broccoli pasta, chickpea pasta, garlic olive oil pasta, quick dinner, plant-based meal, nutritious pasta, weeknight dinner