Pasta e ceci is a traditional Italian dish that combines pasta and chickpeas in a flavorful broth. “Pasta e ceci” (pronounced PAH-stah eh CHEH-chee), also known as pasta with chickpeas. It’s a comforting and hearty meal perfect for chilly days. The dish has a comforting taste with a rich, savory broth, complemented by the creamy texture of chickpeas. It’s often seasoned with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice, making it both comforting and flavorful.
Table of Contents
Pasta e ceci recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 8 oz pasta (like ditalini, small shells, or orecchiette)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Making Pasta:
- Prepare the Base:
- Take a large pot or saucepan and place it on the stove over medium heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pot and let it heat up for a minute.
- Once the oil is warm, add 2 cloves of minced garlic, ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary to the pot.
- Stir everything together and let it cook for about a minute. You’ll start to smell the fragrant aromas of the garlic and herbs.
- Add Chickpeas and Broth:
- Now, open and drain a can of chickpeas (15 oz) and rinse them under cold water. Add these drained chickpeas to the pot.
- Stir the chickpeas into the garlic and herb mixture, ensuring they’re nicely coated with the flavors.
- Next, pour in 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth into the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer and Cook Pasta:
- Increase the heat slightly to bring the broth to a gentle boil.
- Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Now, add 8 oz of pasta (you can use ditalini, small shells, or any small pasta you prefer) into the pot.
- Let the pasta cook in the simmering broth according to the instructions on the pasta package. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta until it’s ‘al dente,’ which means it’s firm to the bite but not overly soft. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes.
- Season and Serve:
- Once the pasta reaches the desired texture, taste it to check if it needs any additional seasoning.
- Add salt and pepper according to your taste preference. Remember that the broth and canned chickpeas might already contain some salt, so adjust carefully.
- When it’s ready, turn off the heat and ladle the pasta e ceci into bowls.
- Optionally, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Storage:
- Store any leftover pasta e ceci in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
Additional Tips
- Customize it: Feel free to get creative! You can add diced tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Creamier Texture: If you prefer a creamier consistency, use a spoon to mash some of the chickpeas against the side of the pot before adding the pasta.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your food before serving to ensure it’s seasoned perfectly for your liking.
Yield, Prep Time and Calories
- Yield: This recipe typically yields about 4 servings.
- Prep Time: The preparation time for Pasta e Ceci is approximately 10-15 minutes.
- Calories: The calorie count for one serving of Pasta e Ceci can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes. However, a typical serving (around 1 cup) can range from 250 to 350 calories
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Yield | Approximately 4 servings |
| Prep Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Calories per serving | Typically ranges from 250 to 350 calories |
What to Serve with Pasta e Ceci
- Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth in Pasta e Ceci. It adds an extra element of texture and makes the meal more satisfying.
- Fresh Green Salad: Prepare a simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing. The freshness of the salad complements the heartiness of the pasta dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant can be served alongside the pasta for a balanced meal. They add a burst of color and extra nutrients to your plate.
- Antipasto Platter: Create an antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables. It’s a great way to start the meal or enjoy alongside the pasta for added variety and flavors.
- Wine Pairing: Consider pairing Pasta e Ceci with a light-bodied red wine like a Chianti or a fruity Pinot Noir. Alternatively, a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can complement the dish nicely.
Enjoy your delicious homemade pasta e ceci, perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal!
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FAQs
What is Pasta e Ceci?
It is an Italian dish that translates to “pasta with chickpeas.” It’s a comforting and hearty meal made by simmering pasta and chickpeas in a flavorful broth.
How do you pronounce Pasta e Ceci?
It’s pronounced as PAH-stah eh CHEH-chee.
What does Pasta e Ceci taste like?
This dish has a rich and savory taste. The broth is flavorful, usually infused with garlic, herbs, and sometimes a hint of spice from red pepper flakes. The chickpeas add a creamy texture, making it comforting and satisfying.
What kind of pasta is best for Pasta e Ceci?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or orecchiette work well for this dish as they complement the chickpeas and absorb the flavors of the broth.
Can I store leftovers of Pasta e Ceci?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
What are some variations or additional ingredients I can add to Pasta e Ceci?
You can customize this pasta dish by adding diced tomatoes, spinach, or other leafy greens for extra flavor and nutrients. Some recipes include pancetta or sausage for added richness.
Is Pasta e Ceci gluten-free?
The dish contains pasta, which is typically made from wheat and contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute.
Can I freeze Pasta e Ceci?
While it’s generally safe to freeze, the texture of the pasta might change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.