Authentic Pasta e Ceci Recipe

Pasta e Ceci, or Pasta and Chickpeas, is a timeless Italian comfort food that perfectly blends simplicity, heartiness, and bold flavors. Originating from the Lazio region, this dish has been a staple in Italian households for centuries. With humble ingredients like chickpeas, pasta, garlic, and rosemary, it transforms into a rich, flavorful dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. It’s the type of recipe that’s perfect for cold weather, offering warmth and depth with every bite. This authentic recipe brings together the earthiness of chickpeas with the delicate texture of pasta, making it the ideal comfort food for family dinners or a quick weeknight meal. The best part? It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld together. Whether you’re familiar with this classic Italian dish or trying it for the first time, the Authentic Pasta e Ceci recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple and Hearty

This recipe uses basic, pantry-friendly ingredients, but the flavors are deep and satisfying. The creamy chickpeas and tender pasta are a perfect combination for a comforting meal.

2. Full of Flavor

The rosemary, garlic, and olive oil work in harmony to create a rich, aromatic base, making every bite of pasta and chickpeas flavorful and savory.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

This dish comes together in under 45 minutes, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or even casual entertaining. You don’t need to be an expert cook to achieve great results.

4. Vegetarian and Nutritious

Pasta e Ceci is naturally vegetarian, and the chickpeas add plenty of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

It’s a great make-ahead meal, and the leftovers actually taste better the next day. You can store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze portions for later.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Fresh rosemary
• Canned or dried chickpeas
• Tomato paste
• Vegetable or chicken broth
• Ditalini or small pasta
• Salt and pepper
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and rosemary for a little heat.
• With Pancetta: For a non-vegetarian twist, add some pancetta or bacon for extra depth and richness.
• Herb Variations: If you prefer other herbs, try substituting rosemary with thyme or sage for a different flavor profile.
• Creamier Version: For a creamier texture, mash some of the chickpeas before adding the pasta, or blend a portion of the chickpeas with a bit of broth to create a velvety base.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

If you’re using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them until tender. If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them before using. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Rosemary

In a large pot, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and fresh rosemary, sautéing until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Broth

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, allowing it to caramelize slightly. Then add the broth, bringing it to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add Chickpeas and Simmer

Add the chickpeas to the pot and allow them to simmer in the broth for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them absorb the flavors and become tender.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the chickpeas are simmering, cook the pasta in a separate pot according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a small cup of pasta water.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Chickpeas

Once the chickpeas are tender and the broth has thickened slightly, add the cooked pasta to the pot. Stir to combine and let the pasta absorb the flavorful broth for 2-3 minutes. If the mixture seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary. Serve hot, drizzled with a little extra olive oil, and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Rosemary: Fresh rosemary imparts a much more vibrant and aromatic flavor than dried, so try to use fresh when possible.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will cook in the broth for a few minutes, make sure it’s just al dente when you add it to the pot.
• Blend Some Chickpeas: For a creamier texture, mash or blend a portion of the chickpeas before adding the pasta. This creates a velvety, thicker broth.

How to Serve

Pasta e Ceci can be served as a main dish for lunch or dinner, especially with a side of crusty bread to soak up the broth. It’s also fantastic when paired with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. For a little extra richness, add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

Pasta e Ceci can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and heat it gently on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth to bring back the consistency.

Reheating

To reheat the pasta, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from becoming too dry. Stir frequently until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones?

Yes, canned chickpeas are perfectly fine for this recipe and will save you time. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the dish.

2. Can I make this recipe without pasta?

Yes, you can skip the pasta to make a chickpea soup, or use other grains like rice or farro for a different texture.

3. Can I add meat to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding pancetta, bacon, or sausage is a great way to add extra flavor and make this dish heartier.

4. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta in place of the regular pasta to make it gluten-free.

5. What kind of pasta should I use?

Traditionally, small pasta like ditalini is used, but you can also use other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or orecchiette.

6. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach, kale, or carrots to the dish for added nutrients and flavor.

7. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and rosemary for an extra kick of heat.

8. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian version of this dish.

9. How long does this dish last in the fridge?

Leftover Pasta e Ceci will last for up to 3 days in the fridge. It’s even more flavorful the next day.

10. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, Pasta e Ceci freezes well for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Conclusion

Authentic Pasta e Ceci is the epitome of Italian comfort food—simple yet full of flavor, hearty yet satisfying. It’s a dish that brings warmth and joy, whether enjoyed on a chilly day or shared with friends and family. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make a meal that’s both nourishing and full of soul. The chickpeas and pasta soak up the savory broth, creating a dish that’s rich in flavor but light on effort. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or new to this classic dish, Pasta e Ceci is sure to become a beloved part of your recipe rotation.

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