Thanks to protein-rich chickpeas, using chickpea pasta is a great way to incorporate plant-based protein into your meals easily. While delicious, chickpea pasta has a slightly nuttier flavor than traditional pasta. That's why I have gathered this list of recipes written specifically for pasta made from chickpeas. Whether you're looking for the perfect recipe to test out your first box of chickpea pasta, or if you're just looking to freshen up the weeknight dinner rotation, one of these ten top-tier recipes is sure to catch your eye!
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Benefits of Chickpea Pasta
Why use chickpea pasta in the first place? Well, there are a few reasons. When compared to regular pasta, chickpea pasta has about four times as much fiber and twice the protein. Because of this, chickpea pasta can help to slow digestion, which can in turn help to support blood sugar management. Additionally, chickpea pasta is gluten-free and vegan, making it an excellent choice for those with these dietary restrictions.
While chickpea pasta has some very attractive health benefits, the cost difference at your local grocery store is probably noteworthy. While the cost will vary by location, chickpea pasta can cost over twice as much as a standard box of pasta, or even gluten-free pasta. To partially offset this cost, you can consider buying chickpea pasta in bulk or waiting for sales. It is also worth considering that the additional protein in the pasta can help to create a satisfying, complete meal without the addition of another protein source, which could be a cost equalizer.
Cooking Chickpea Pasta
Cooking chickpea pasta is not different from any other dried type of pasta. Simply bring a large pot of cold water to a boil, add salt and pasta, and allow the pasta to boil according to package directions until it is al dente. For chickpea pasta, this can take a little less time than traditional pasta; about 6-8 minutes. Then, drain it. As with most gluten-free pasta, these noodles can become sticky after draining, so rinsing them with cold water after draining can help. Before draining, you can reserve some of the starchy pasta cooking water to add to your sauce. This can help the sauce to stick to your noodles better.
Now, let's get into these vegan chickpea pasta recipes!
Lemon Broccoli Chickpea Pasta
With chickpeas in the sauce, noodles, and on top, this recipe really showcases the versatility of garbanzo beans! With flavorful-yet-simple ingredients including lemon zest, roasted broccoli, and red pepper flakes, this is a refreshingly sophisticated dish for a busy weeknight.
Creamy Chickpea Pasta with Vegetables
Basil Avocado Pesto Pasta
Southwest Pasta Salad
Chickpea noodles are great for pasta salad as they have a perfect al-dente texture when chilled. Looking for a refreshing vegan dish to bring to your summer picnic or cookout? This southwest-inspired pasta salad features a delicious blend of fresh ingredients, including cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.
Chickpea Pasta with Creamy Roasted Eggplant Sauce
Baked Ziti
Chickpea Noodle Soup
With chickpea pasta and a can of chickpeas, this comforting soup packs 14 grams of protein into each serving without using any other protein source. No need to cook your pasta beforehand, just toss it into the soup near the end of cooking for this simple recipe.
Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad
Chili Mac
Creamy Baked Tomato Pasta
This sneaky recipe uses a secret ingredient for its ultra-creamy sauce. Alright, fine. I'll tell you- it's tahini! Serve this decadent pasta to friends and family and see if they can guess why this simple recipe is so scrumptiously savory.
FAQ
While "healthy" can vary from person to person, chickpea pasta is a balanced source of protein and complex carbohydrates. When paired with other foods, such as a fat source and perhaps some flavonoid-rich fruits and/or veggies, chickpea pasta can certainly be a foundational part of a healthful and satisfying meal.
All of the chickpea pasta I have ever seen at my grocery stores are vegan, however it is always a good idea to check the label if you are trying out a new product. For peace of mind, here are a few brands of chickpea-based pasta that are definitely vegan (and gluten free):
Banza
Chickapea (Organic)
Barilla
Yes, you can! Alpha Foodie's homemade chickpea pasta recipe uses only chickpea flour and water for a super simple pasta-rolling night!
Thanks for reading this list of amazing vegan pasta recipes! Don't forget to save these recipes by pinning to Pinterest! Which of these recipes are you most excited to try?
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