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Lemon Chickpea Pasta

Lemon Chickpea Pasta

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

Description

Lemon Chickpea Pasta is a bright and creamy plant-based dish combining zesty lemon, protein-rich chickpeas, and a smooth lemon cream sauce made with plant-based dairy. Ready in under 30 minutes, it delivers a fresh, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Simple, wholesome, and easily customizable with herbs, veggies, and spices, this pasta balances freshness and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 200g pasta of choice (whole grain, gluten-free, or classic semolina)
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup plant-based cream or yogurt
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red chili flakes

Fresh Herbs and Garnishes

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Optional: toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for topping
  • Optional: additional red chili flakes for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and reserve some pasta cooking water.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Chickpeas: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant. Add drained chickpeas and cook for a few minutes until they soften and absorb the garlic aroma.
  3. Prepare the Lemon Cream Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together plant-based cream or yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), natural gelling agent, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with sautéed chickpeas. Pour the lemon cream sauce over the pasta and chickpeas, adding reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the pasta. Toss lightly to distribute evenly. Serve immediately while warm, optionally garnished with toasted nuts and extra chili flakes.

Notes

  • Keep pasta al dente to prevent mushiness when combined with sauce.
  • Add reserved pasta water slowly to adjust sauce creaminess perfectly.
  • Zest lemons just before use for the freshest, most intense citrus flavor.
  • Toast chickpeas lightly in a dry pan before sautéing for a nutty depth.
  • Use fresh herbs generously to brighten flavor and aroma.
  • 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: 250mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: lemon chickpea pasta, plant-based pasta, vegan pasta, quick dinner, creamy lemon sauce, protein-packed pasta, easy weeknight meal, dairy-free pasta sauce

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