Description

This Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil is the ultimate healthy comfort food—a quick dinner idea that’s easy to prepare, packed with fiber and plant protein, and bursting with fresh, bold flavors. With tender broccoli, creamy chickpeas, and aromatic garlic olive oil coating every bite of pasta, it’s a delicious weeknight meal that fits perfectly into your rotation of easy recipes and food ideas. Whether you’re seeking a vegetarian pasta dish, a healthy lunch prep option, or just new dinner ideas, this easy recipe is sure to become a staple.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne, orecchiette, or rigatoni)

1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)

2 cups broccoli florets

4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Add broccoli 3 minutes before pasta is done. Drain both and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until garlic turns golden, about 1–2 minutes.

3. Add chickpeas to the garlic oil. Sauté for 3–4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Mash a few chickpeas to create a creamy texture.

4. Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat in garlic oil. Add lemon zest and juice if using.

5. Adjust seasoning. Remove from heat. Top with grated Parmesan or vegan cheese, chopped parsley, and extra red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Mash a few chickpeas in the skillet for a creamy texture that coats the pasta better.

Use lemon juice and zest to brighten up the dish and balance the garlic oil.

Don’t overcook the broccoli—add it just before the pasta is done to keep it vibrant and slightly crisp.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 420
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, healthy meal, vegetarian, broccoli chickpea pasta