Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re about to embark on a culinary journey to Italy with our delicious Pasta e Ceci recipe. Pasta e Ceci, also known as pasta with chickpeas, is a cherished dish in Italian cuisine. In this cozy recipe, we bring you the flavors of the Mediterranean with a hearty combination of pasta and legumes.
Our homemade Pasta e Ceci is a vegan pasta recipe that is both nutritious and comforting. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking healthy pasta dishes that don’t compromise on taste. The star of this dish is the velvety tomato sauce that bathes the chickpeas and pasta, creating a rich and satisfying one-pot meal.
Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its traditional dishes, and Pasta e Ceci is no exception. This recipe embodies the essence of homemade Italian cooking, with vibrant flavors and simple ingredients coming together to create a delicious masterpiece.
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds and indulge in a bowl of Pasta e Ceci? Let’s get started!
The Debate about Pasta e Ceci
Pasta e ceci is a highly debated dish in the realm of Italian cooking. It falls into the category of traditional Italian cuisine, but there are ongoing arguments about its exact preparation and ingredients. Some regions claim to have invented it, while others have their own variations.
One of the key debates surrounding pasta e ceci is whether it should be classified as a soup or a pasta dish. The dish typically consists of tomato paste, garlic, olive oil, pasta, wine, and chickpeas, with the liquid varying in amount and consistency. Some versions lean towards being more of a soupy pasta, while others resemble a pasta soup. The choice of using a fork or a spoon ultimately depends on personal preference.
“Pasta e ceci is a dish that sparks lively discussions among Italian cooking enthusiasts. The arguments about its proper categorization and regional variations add to its charm and allure.”
Ultimately, there is no definitive answer to the debate, but the variations and discussions surrounding pasta e ceci add to its appeal and intrigue.
| Debate Points | Perspectives |
|---|---|
| Soup or pasta dish? | Traditional Italian cuisine versus regional variations |
| Consistency | Soupy pasta or pasta soup? |
| Utensil choice | Fork or spoon? |
Cozy Chickpea Pasta with Tomato Passata Sauce
This version of pasta e ceci deviates from the traditional recipe by using a velvety tomato sauce made with tomato passata instead of concentrated tomato paste. Tomato passata is a thick, strained puree of tomatoes, often sold in jars. It has a smooth and concentrated texture, making it perfect for creating a creamy and saucy base for this cozy chickpea pasta.
One unique twist in this recipe is the use of undrained chickpeas, including the bean juice or aquafaba. This bean juice contains starchy compounds that help thicken the sauce and create a rich and creamy texture.
This flavorful and comforting pasta dish can be made with DeLallo’s tomato passata, which is readily available in Italian specialty stores.
If you prefer a smoother sauce with a velvety texture, this version of pasta e ceci is a must-try. The tomato passata provides a luscious base, while the undrained chickpeas add a creamy consistency that perfectly coats the pasta. The result is a dish that has all the sauciness you crave, with a rich and satisfying flavor.
For those who are unfamiliar with tomato passata, it is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes. Made from strained tomatoes, it offers the convenience of a smooth texture without any seeds or skin. This allows the sauce to have a consistent and creamy texture throughout, enhancing the overall eating experience.
The use of tomato passata in this recipe adds depth and richness to the sauce, elevating the flavors of the dish. Its concentrated tomato flavor provides a vibrant and robust taste that complements the chickpeas and pasta perfectly.
When making this cozy chickpea pasta, be sure to use DeLallo’s tomato passata for the best results. DeLallo is known for their high-quality Italian products, and their tomato passata is no exception. The richness and flavor of their tomato passata will take your pasta e ceci to the next level.
Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe for making this cozy chickpea pasta with tomato passata sauce:
“This velvety and saucy pasta e ceci is a comforting dish that combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the richness of tomato passata. It’s a perfect dish for cozy evenings and satisfying cravings.”
| Ingredients | Instructions |
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This cozy chickpea pasta with tomato passata sauce is a delicious and comforting dish that will warm your heart and soul. The velvety tomato sauce combined with the creamy texture of the chickpeas creates a delightful experience with each bite. Try it today and enjoy the sauciness and flavors of this delectable pasta dish!
Perfecting the Pasta e Ceci Recipe
When it comes to creating the perfect pasta e ceci, choosing the right pasta shape is crucial. The shellbow shape, resembling an elbow-shaped shell, is highly recommended due to its compatibility with the chickpeas and its ability to hold the sauce effectively. Alternatives like lumaconi or lumache, which have similar shapes, can also be used for a unique twist.
Personal sauciness preference is another important factor to consider. Adjusting the amount of water used allows you to achieve the desired consistency. If you prefer a more sauce-like texture, start with 1 1/2 cups of water and add more as needed throughout the cooking process.
Cooking times may vary depending on the pot used, so it’s essential to check and taste the pasta frequently to ensure it reaches the desired level of doneness. This helps achieve the perfect balance between tender pasta and al dente texture.
For those seeking a thicker sauce, try cooking the dish topless. Allowing the pan to simmer uncovered promotes evaporation, resulting in a richer and more concentrated sauce.
When it comes to reheating leftovers, prevent dried-out pasta and burnt flavors by adding a splash of water before reheating. This simple step helps to revive the dish and maintain its delicious flavors.
Remember, the true beauty of pasta e ceci lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your personal taste and preferences. Whether you prefer a saucier dish or a thicker consistency, perfecting this traditional Italian recipe is all about finding the ideal pasta shape, adjusting the sauciness, and mastering the cooking process.
| Pasta Shape | Chickpea Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Shellbows | High |
| Lumaconi | Medium |
| Lumache | Medium |
| Ditalini | Low |
Homemade Pasta e Ceci Recipe
Looking for a simple and delicious dinner option? Our homemade pasta e ceci recipe is just what you need. This one-pot wonder combines cozy chickpea pasta with flavorful tomato passata, garlic, white wine, and fresh herbs. Let’s dive in and create a comforting and satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 1 cup tomato passata
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 8 ounces pasta (shellbows or ditalini recommended)
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh herbs (such as basil or rosemary), chopped
- Extra-virgin olive oil and shaved Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pot with white wine, stirring to incorporate the flavors.
- Add the tomato passata to the pot, along with the drained and rinsed chickpeas. Stir to combine.
- Add the pasta, water, salt, and chili flakes (if using) to the pot. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is cooked to al dente, remove the pot from the heat. If desired, adjust the seasoning with additional salt or chili flakes.
- Sprinkle the fresh herbs over the pasta and give it a final stir.
- Divide the pasta e ceci into serving bowls. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and top with shaved Parmesan cheese.
This cozy chickpea pasta is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of lightly dressed arugula salad or other fresh salads for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s the perfect dish to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!
Traditional Italian Pasta e Ceci Recipe
The traditional Italian version of pasta e ceci is a comforting and nourishing dinner that combines pasta with chickpeas, rosemary, and vegetables. This recipe is a classic example of Italian comfort food, with the chickpeas providing a rich source of nutrients. The dish is often enjoyed as a one-dish dinner, perfect for a traditional Italian evening.
To make this delicious and hearty dish, start by cooking ditalini pasta until al dente. In a separate pot, sauté carrots, celery, and onion until tender. Add in chickpeas, tomato, and a sprig of fresh rosemary for a burst of flavor. Allow the ingredients to simmer together, creating a fragrant and rich sauce.
Serve the pasta e ceci piping hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh rosemary and a drizzle of olive oil. The combination of tender pasta, creamy chickpeas, and aromatic herbs will transport you to the heart of Italy. For a complete meal, pair this traditional Italian dinner with a refreshing Caprese salad or a zesty Lemon Parmesan Lettuce Salad.