Pasta e Ceci: A Cozy Italian Classic

Pasta e Ceci, or Pasta with Chickpeas, is a delicious and hearty Italian dish that beautifully combines the nutty flavor of chickpeas with pasta, all simmered in a fragrant broth. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners and is incredibly simple to make. From my own personal experience, I’ve found that it’s not only satisfying but also a fantastic way to incorporate legumes into your diet.

Let me show you how I make this comforting dish.

Notes on What to Expect

Expect a comforting, slightly thick soup that has a rich flavor from the sautéed vegetables and herbs, complemented by the hearty pasta and creamy chickpeas. It’s filling yet light, perfect for any occasion.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Time to Stand: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: $10-$12 (varies based on local prices)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board
• Can opener (if using canned chickpeas)
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Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1.5 cups cooked chickpeas)
• 8 oz (about 2 cups) ditalini or small pasta
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
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Method

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
   • Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
3. Incorporate Chickpeas and Tomatoes:
   • Add the rinsed chickpeas and the diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Pour in the Broth:
   • Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Cook the Pasta:
   • Add the ditalini or your chosen small pasta to the pot and stir. Cook according to the pasta package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
6. Adjust Consistency:
   • If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
7. Taste and Serve:
   • Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Variations

• Add Greens: Stir in a couple of handfuls of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
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Tips

• Using Dried Chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the recipe.
• Meal Prep: This dish holds well in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and canned tomatoes to control the salt content.
• Vegan: Omit the Parmesan cheese for a completely vegan meal.
• Nut-Free: Ensure the broth and any added toppings do not contain nuts.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 10g

Conclusion

I hope this guide has made making Pasta e Ceci seem a little less daunting, or have you tried it before? Please, be honest and let me know in the comments below. I love to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment! Enjoy your cooking adventure!