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Lemon Chickpea Pasta

Lemon Chickpea Pasta

  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Plant-Based, Gluten Free

Description

Lemon Chickpea Pasta is a vibrant and wholesome plant-based dish combining zesty lemon flavors, creamy plant-based cheese, protein-packed chickpeas, and fresh herbs. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or sharing with friends, offering a satisfying and nutritious meal with bright citrus and herb accents.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta (gluten-free if desired)

Chickpea Mixture

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1/2 cup plant-based cheese, shredded or crumbled
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

Greens and Herbs

  • 2 cups spinach or kale (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Garnishes and Extras

  • Additional lemon zest for garnish
  • Toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water and cook your pasta until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve one cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.
  2. Prepare the Chickpea Mixture: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add chickpeas and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to turn slightly golden.
  3. Combine with Lemon and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and plant-based cheese. Mix gently until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
  4. Toss Pasta and Greens: Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss until well coated with the sauce. Fold in spinach or kale, letting the greens wilt slightly for added color and nutrition.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Finish by adding freshly chopped herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste, then serve warm for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to help create a silky, cohesive sauce.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
  • Choose durable pasta shapes that hold sauce well to avoid mushiness.
  • Cook garlic gently to retain its natural sweetness and avoid bitterness.
  • Adjust plant-based cheese gradually to achieve your preferred creaminess level.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Lemon chickpea pasta, plant-based pasta, creamy chickpea pasta, quick dinner, gluten-free pasta, vegan pasta recipe

Find it online: https://quicktastykitchen.com/lemon-chickpea-pasta/