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Pasta e Ceci Recipe (Pasta with Chickpeas)

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Pasta e Ceci is a cozy Italian dish combining tender pasta and creamy chickpeas in a rich tomato-based broth. Hearty, comforting, and made with pantry staples.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • 1 cup vegetable stock
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 Parmesan rind (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
  3. Add garlic and rosemary sprig. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in chickpeas and crushed tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
  5. Add vegetable stock and Parmesan rind (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add reserved pasta water if too thick.
  6. Stir in cooked pasta, tossing to coat. Add more pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
  7. Remove rosemary and Parmesan rind. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve hot with grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

  • Add more vegetable stock for a soupier consistency.
  • For vegan version, omit Parmesan rind and cheese.
  • Use ditalini, small shells, or penne instead of rigatoni if preferred.
  • Store leftovers in fridge up to 3 days; reheat with added liquid.
  • Only freeze the chickpea sauce, not the full pasta dish.

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