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Broccoli Chickpea Pasta is not only a dish that brings forth a delightful blend of flavors but also a powerhouse of nutrients. This vibrant recipe combines the wholesome goodness of whole wheat pasta, which provides a robust foundation, with the protein-rich benefits of chickpeas and the freshness of broccoli. With the right balance of acidity from lemon, a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, and the subtle nuttiness of Parmesan cheese, this dish offers a taste experience that is both satisfying and invigorating.

Broccoli Chickpea Pasta: A Wholesome Delight

This Broccoli Chickpea Pasta is a wholesome and easy vegetarian dish packed with flavor and nutrition. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 can chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 3 cloves garlic finely minced
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 whole lemon juice and zest
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, adding broccoli in the last 3 minutes.
  • Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 1-2 minutes.
  • Add chickpeas to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
  • Combine the drained pasta and broccoli with the chickpeas in the skillet.
  • Add lemon juice and zest, tossing everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
  • Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
  • Serve the pasta on plates, garnished with fresh basil and extra cheese if desired.

Notes

For a vegan option, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
Keyword broccoli, chickpeas, easy, healthy, pasta, quick, vegetarian