When it comes to quick and delicious weeknight meals, there are few combinations more satisfying than a plate of creamy chickpea pasta. The humble legume is a staple in many cuisines around the world, and when paired with a rich and tangy sauce, it’s a match made in heaven.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering creamy chickpea pasta recipes that are sure to become your new go-to dinner solution. From classic garlic butter and lemon herb flavors to more adventurous options like coconut curry and spicy peanut, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for some inspiration for your next meal prep session, these recipes are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Garlic Butter Chickpea Pasta with Spinach
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the creaminess of garlic butter, the heartiness of chickpeas, and the nutrition of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp. butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chickpeas to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic butter. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chickpea mixture, and remaining 2 tbsp. butter in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta with Basil
Brighten up your dinner routine with this vibrant and flavorful pasta dish, featuring the creamy combination of lemon, garlic, and chickpeas. This recipe is a perfect blend of comforting and refreshing, perfect for any day.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chickpeas, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the creamy chickpea mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese and chopped basil (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tomato Chickpea Pasta with Olives
Add a flavorful twist to classic pasta dishes with this spicy tomato chickpea recipe, featuring olives and a kick of heat. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 dried red chili flakes (optional, for added heat)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and parsley to the skillet; cook 4-5 minutes or until the tomatoes release their juices.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato mixture; toss well to combine.
5. If desired, add dried red chili flakes for an extra kick of heat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Chickpea Pasta
Savor the flavors of roasted red peppers and chickpeas combined with al dente pasta, all in one delicious and nutritious dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add roasted red peppers and chickpeas to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked pasta, roasted pepper mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut Curry Chickpea Pasta
Combine the creamy richness of coconut milk with the warmth of Indian-inspired curry spices and the protein-packed goodness of chickpeas for a deliciously unique pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz), full-fat
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and coconut milk. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the curry sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Avocado Chickpea Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the nutty flavor of chickpeas and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all on a bed of al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz.), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in chickpeas, avocado, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the chickpea mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Chickpea Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This vibrant pasta dish combines the creamy richness of pesto sauce with the nutty flavor of chickpeas and the sweet tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked chickpeas and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
3. Stir in the pesto sauce and sun-dried tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the chickpea mixture until well combined.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chickpea Pasta Primavera with Seasonal Veggies
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and nutritious pasta dish, featuring chickpeas, seasonal veggies, and a hint of Mediterranean zest.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. whole wheat spaghetti
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz.)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to tenderize (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in the chickpeas, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together with some reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Pasta
Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Pasta Recipe
This creamy pasta dish combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a rich and satisfying sauce. A perfect vegetarian option for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in chickpeas, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chickpea Pasta with Kale
This hearty pasta dish combines the smoky flavor of paprika with the nutty taste of chickpeas and the earthy goodness of kale. A perfect meal for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoky paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in smoky paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, salt, and pepper; cook for 2 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped kale; cook until wilted (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Combine cooked pasta, chickpea mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea Pasta Alfredo with Broccoli
This recipe combines the comfort of classic Alfredo sauce with the nutritious boost of chickpeas and broccoli, creating a satisfying and healthy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add broccoli to the skillet; cook until tender (5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in chickpeas, Parmesan cheese, flour, and vegetable broth. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until sauce thickens.
5. Combine cooked pasta and Alfredo mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta with Feta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the creamy goodness of chickpeas, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the freshness of Mediterranean herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or linguine)
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add chickpeas, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with chickpea mixture until well combined.
5. Crumble feta cheese on top of pasta and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea Pasta with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
This hearty and flavorful pasta dish combines the creamy richness of chickpeas, the sweetness of caramelized onions, and the earthiness of thyme. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add chickpeas, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the chickpea mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan Chickpea Mac and Cheese
A creamy, comforting twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, this vegan version incorporates nutritious chickpeas and a dairy-free sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup vegan cheddar shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chickpeas to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a separate saucepan, whisk together vegetable broth and vegan cheddar shreds until smooth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, chickpea mixture, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional vegan cheddar shreds if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chickpea Pasta with Roasted Garlic and Rosemary
This hearty pasta dish combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the deep flavors of roasted garlic and rosemary. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz.), drained and rinsed
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into cloves
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the garlic cloves with 1 tbsp. olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, chickpeas, and chopped rosemary. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the chickpea mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Peanut Chickpea Pasta with Cabbage
Spicy Peanut Chickpea Pasta with Cabbage: A flavorful and nutritious fusion of Asian-inspired spices and Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or spaghetti work well)
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine chickpeas, cabbage, peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture is heated through and the cabbage is slightly caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the chickpea-cabbage mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chickpea Pasta with Artichokes and Lemon Zest
A Mediterranean-inspired twist on classic pasta, this dish combines the creamy richness of chickpeas with the tender sweetness of artichoke hearts and a burst of citrusy lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz.), drained and rinsed
– 1 can artichoke hearts (14 oz.), drained and chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped artichoke hearts and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add the chickpeas, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the chickpea-artichoke mixture. Toss to coat and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Tahini Chickpea Pasta with Roasted Eggplant
Elevate your pasta game with this Middle Eastern-inspired dish that combines the richness of tahini sauce, the creaminess of chickpeas, and the sweetness of roasted eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast eggplant slices for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a blender, combine tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
5. Add chickpeas to the blender and blend until well combined with the tahini sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta, roasted eggplant, and chickpea-tahini sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chickpea Pasta with Spinach and Cashew Cream
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of chickpeas with the creaminess of cashew cream and the sweetness of spinach, all on a bed of al dente pasta. A perfect vegan comfort food dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup cashew cream (see note)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chickpeas, spinach, and cashew cream to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted.
4. Combine the cooked pasta with the chickpea mixture and season with salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast (if using).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sunflower Seed Chickpea Pasta with Arugula
A nutritious and flavorful pasta dish that combines the nutty flavor of sunflower seeds with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a bed of peppery arugula.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh arugula leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sunflower seeds and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add garlic and cooked chickpeas to the skillet. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the chickpea mixture.
5. Divide arugula leaves among individual plates. Top with pasta mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight dinners with these creamy chickpea pasta recipes! With 20 delicious and varied options, you’ll never get bored again. From classic combinations like Garlic Butter Chickpea Pasta with Spinach to bold flavors like Spicy Peanut Chickpea Pasta with Cabbage, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting Alfredo or a zesty Mediterranean-inspired dish, these recipes are sure to please. Plus, many of them are vegan-friendly and packed with nutritious ingredients. So go ahead, get cooking, and make your weeknights a little more delicious!
