Pasta e Ceci is a classic Italian dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This delicious chickpea soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy something hearty and healthy. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe is easy to make and loved by all.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Pasta e Ceci because it’s simple and satisfying. It uses ingredients that are often already in your pantry, making it affordable too. This dish is great for feeding a family, and it’s a wonderful way to introduce more plant-based meals into your diet. When I make it for my family, everyone asks for seconds! It’s a delightful way to share a meal together.
How to Make Pasta e Ceci
Making Pasta e Ceci is straightforward and rewarding. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cans, drained)
- 2 cups pasta (small shapes like ditalini or macaroni)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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If you are using dried chickpeas, make sure to soak them overnight in water. The next day, drain and rinse them well.
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In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté everything until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
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Now, add the soaked chickpeas (or canned chickpeas if you’re using those), diced tomatoes, oregano, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes if you used dried chickpeas. You want them to be tender.
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After that, stir in the pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente.
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Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste! If your soup seems too thick, feel free to add more broth or water until you’re happy with the consistency.
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Serve your Pasta e Ceci hot, and if you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice touch.
How to Serve Pasta e Ceci
Pasta e Ceci is best served warm. You can enjoy it with some crusty bread on the side for dipping. It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends.
How to Store Pasta e Ceci
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving again. The flavors may even get better as it sits!
Tips to Make Pasta e Ceci
- Make sure to soak the chickpeas well if you’re using dried ones; it helps them cook better.
- Feel free to adjust the veggies based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers or spinach work well too!
- If you want a thicker soup, you can mash some of the chickpeas before adding the pasta.
Variation
You can easily make this soup a little different by adding your favorite spices or using different types of pasta. Try adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or some chili flakes for a kick!
FAQs
Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes! Canned chickpeas make this recipe even quicker. Just rinse and drain them before adding.
What if I don’t have vegetable broth?
You can use water, but using broth adds more flavor.
Can I freeze Pasta e Ceci?
Yes, you can freeze the soup without the pasta. Just add the pasta when you reheat it after thawing.
Enjoy making Pasta e Ceci—it’s comfort food at its best!