Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tomato Chickpea Pasta is not only packed with flavors but also with nutrients. The chickpeas add a great source of plant-based protein, while the tomatoes bring a burst of freshness and acidity. Together with garlic, olive oil, and simple seasonings, this dish is incredibly satisfying yet light enough to enjoy any time. It’s perfect for busy days, offering a quick cooking time without compromising on taste. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with fiber, making it a great option for everyone!

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups pasta of your choice (gluten-free if needed)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing well to combine. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add greens: For extra nutrition, you can add some spinach or kale to the sauce. Simply stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to bring some heat to the dish.
Protein boost: If you want to add more protein, try adding sautéed tofu or tempeh alongside the chickpeas.
Vegan cheese: Sprinkle with some vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce, if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or gluten-free pasta.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes. Use about 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, diced, and cook them until they soften and release their juices.

3. Can I make this dish without chickpeas?

Yes, you can omit the chickpeas or replace them with another protein like lentils or even tofu.

4. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add spice, include red pepper flakes, a chopped chili, or a dash of hot sauce.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a few days. It tastes great reheated as the flavors continue to develop.

6. Can I use canned tomatoes with added seasonings?

Sure! If you use seasoned canned tomatoes, you may want to adjust the amount of oregano and basil used in the recipe to avoid overwhelming the flavor.

7. How do I make this dish richer?

To make the dish richer, you can add a bit of coconut milk or cream to the sauce to add a creamy texture.

8. Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to separate the pasta and sauce for easier reheating.

9. Can I make this recipe without onion?

Yes, you can leave out the onion or substitute with a small amount of shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.

10. What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic bread.

Conclusion

Tomato Chickpea Pasta is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Packed with plant-based protein and vibrant flavors, it’s a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. With easy-to-find ingredients and a quick cooking time, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe delivers on taste and ease.

Tomato Chickpea Pasta

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Tomato Chickpea Pasta is a hearty, plant-based meal that combines the rich flavor of tomatoes with protein-packed chickpeas. This vegan, gluten-free dish is quick to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for any weeknight dinner. It’s a nutritious, fiber-rich, and satisfying option for anyone seeking a healthy meal without compromising on taste.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 15min
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegan

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in chickpeas, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes, adding reserved pasta water if the sauce thickens too much.
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and mix well. Let cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

Variations: Add spinach or kale for extra nutrition. For a spicier version, include red pepper flakes or a chopped chili. To increase protein, try adding sautéed tofu or tempeh alongside the chickpeas.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.