Pasta e Ceci Recipe

Introduction

Pasta e Ceci, also known as Pasta and Chickpeas, is a hearty, satisfying, and nourishing Italian dish that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful and comforting meal. This traditional Roman recipe showcases the beauty of Italian cucina povera, or “poor kitchen,” where everyday ingredients are transformed into delicious dishes. The star of the dish is chickpeas, which provide a rich, earthy flavor, paired with pasta and a savory, garlicky broth.

Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, Pasta e Ceci is an easy, budget-friendly dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. This recipe is packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of essential nutrients, making it a wholesome meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or simply looking for a tasty, simple meal, Pasta e Ceci is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love Pasta e Ceci

• Hearty and Comforting: This dish is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy texture of the chickpeas combined with the rich, flavorful broth makes it an incredibly satisfying meal.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can prepare this flavorful dish. The entire meal can be made in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making this dish a great choice for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to eat more plant-based meals. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, including iron, folate, and magnesium.
• Customizable: Pasta e Ceci can easily be adapted to suit different tastes. You can choose any type of pasta you prefer, use canned or dried chickpeas, or add in extra vegetables and seasonings to make the dish your own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the refrigerator and even improves in flavor after a day or two. It’s an excellent option for meal prepping, as you can prepare a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the pasta used and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 6-8g
• Carbohydrates: 55-60g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Pasta e Ceci:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh, finely chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1 1/2 cups cooked dried chickpeas)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 1/2 cups short pasta (such as ditalini, small shells, or elbow macaroni)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Optional for Added Flavor:

• A splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a touch of acidity
• 1/2 cup of cooked pancetta or bacon for a non-vegetarian version
• A handful of spinach or kale for added greens

Special Equipment

Though Pasta e Ceci doesn’t require any special equipment, a few kitchen tools will help ensure smooth preparation and a better cooking experience:

1. Large Pot: A large, sturdy pot or Dutch oven is essential for simmering the broth and cooking the pasta. It will allow all the ingredients to blend together and develop a rich, flavorful base.
2. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is perfect for stirring the vegetables, chickpeas, and pasta without damaging the pot’s surface. It also helps in sautéing the vegetables and preventing them from sticking to the bottom.
3. Strainer or Colander: For draining and rinsing the canned chickpeas, a strainer or colander is needed. If you’re using dried chickpeas, you’ll also need to strain them after cooking.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are important to balance the ingredients and create the right consistency for the broth.
5. Can Opener: A can opener is necessary for opening the cans of chickpeas and tomatoes.
6. Grater or Zester: If you’re using Parmesan cheese for garnish, a grater or zester will allow you to finely grate the cheese just before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

Once the vegetables are softened, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This will release the aromatic oils and infuse the dish with a savory base.

2. Add the Herbs and Spices

To the sautéed vegetables, add the dried rosemary, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together to allow the herbs to bloom in the heat, releasing their full flavor. You can also use fresh rosemary and thyme for a more vibrant, fragrant taste.

3. Add the Chickpeas and Broth

Add the rinsed chickpeas to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the broth simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chickpeas to soften.

If you’re using cooked dried chickpeas instead of canned, you’ll want to ensure that they’ve been pre-cooked until tender before adding them to the pot. Add them at the same stage as the canned chickpeas.

4. Cook the Pasta

Once the broth is simmering and the flavors have melded together, add the short pasta to the pot. Stir the pasta into the broth, making sure it’s fully submerged. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed some of the flavorful broth.

If the soup becomes too thick while cooking, you can add a bit more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

5. Adjust the Seasoning

Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a touch of acidity, add a small splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

6. Serve the Pasta e Ceci

Once the pasta is cooked and the broth has thickened to your liking, remove the pot from the heat. Ladle the Pasta e Ceci into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Pasta e Ceci

• Use Good Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is a key ingredient in this dish, be sure to use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It adds richness and depth to the broth.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: The pasta will continue to cook slightly as it sits in the hot broth, so make sure you cook it al dente. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
• Adjust the Consistency: Depending on your preference, you can make this dish more soup-like or stew-like. If you prefer a thicker consistency, allow the soup to simmer longer, or mash some of the chickpeas against the side of the pot to thicken the broth.
• Use Canned or Dried Chickpeas: If you’re using canned chickpeas, be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove any excess sodium. If using dried chickpeas, you’ll need to cook them ahead of time, which will require more time but will result in a richer flavor.
• Make It Heartier: If you want a heartier dish, consider adding cooked pancetta or bacon for a smoky, savory twist. You could also toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: Pasta e Ceci is perfect for serving alongside crusty Italian bread, which you can dip into the flavorful broth. It adds another layer of comfort to this already satisfying meal.

Variations of Pasta e Ceci

• Pasta e Ceci with Pancetta: For a non-vegetarian version, add a small amount of cooked pancetta or bacon to the pot after sautéing the vegetables. The salty, smoky flavor complements the earthiness of the chickpeas perfectly.
• Pasta e Ceci with Greens: Add a handful of fresh spinach, kale, or Swiss chard to the soup at the end of cooking for added nutrition and a burst of color.
• Spicy Pasta e Ceci: For an extra kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the broth. This will give the dish some extra heat without overpowering the flavors.
• Vegan Pasta e Ceci: This recipe is naturally vegan, but you can make it even more plant-based by using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese and ensuring the broth is vegetable-based.

Storage and Shelf Life

Pasta e Ceci stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water, as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits. Simply heat it over medium-low heat until warmed through.

If you want to freeze Pasta e Ceci, it can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding extra liquid if necessary.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Pasta e Ceci

Pair this delicious Italian dish with these complementary sides for a complete meal:

• Italian Bread: A loaf of crusty Italian bread or a baguette is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with arugula, mixed greens, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette would provide a nice contrast to the hearty soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant, make for a great side dish that complements the flavors of the Pasta e Ceci.
• Wine Pairing: A light Italian white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Verdicchio, would pair beautifully with this dish. If you prefer red, try a light Chianti or a Dolcetto.

Print

Conclusion

Pasta e Ceci is a timeless, delicious Italian dish that offers both comfort and nutrition. With its simple ingredients and rich flavors, it’s a perfect example of how everyday pantry staples can come together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight meal or a cozy weekend gathering, Pasta e Ceci is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.