Description
A flavorful and hearty Slow Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta combining blistered cherry tomatoes and crispy chickpeas with al dente pasta, fresh basil, and a light balsamic dressing. Perfect for a nutritious Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Roasted Vegetables and Chickpeas
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta and Dressing
- 8 oz pasta (such as rigatoni or penne)
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for roasting the vegetables and chickpeas.
- Prepare Roasting Mixture: On a large baking sheet, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, drained chickpeas, minced garlic, olive oil, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to coat evenly and spread out in a single layer for even roasting.
- Roast Vegetables and Chickpeas: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 35 to 40 minutes. Halfway through, stir the mixture to ensure even cooking. The tomatoes should blister and the chickpeas turn golden and slightly crispy.
- Cook Pasta: While roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
- Combine Pasta and Roasted Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the roasted tomatoes and chickpeas with the cooked pasta. Add the reserved pasta water and balsamic vinegar, stirring well to create a light, flavorful sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the pasta with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil just before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- This dish is delicious served warm or chilled as a pasta salad.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes according to taste.
- Parmesan cheese is optional; omit for a dairy-free version.
