Introduction
This delicious short-cut pasta dish is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors. With vibrant cherry tomatoes, wholesome spinach, protein-packed chickpeas, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, it’s a wholesome meal perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound short-cut pasta (such as shells or elbows)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 pints cherry tomatoes
6 garlic cloves, minced
5 ounces fresh baby spinach
1 (14-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Boil Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the short-cut pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
Step 2: Sauté Tomatoes and Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes burst and release their juices, creating a sauce-like consistency.
Step 3: Add Spinach
Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the spinach wilt. Stir until the spinach is wilted and well combined with the tomatoes.
Step 4: Incorporate Chickpeas
Add the drained chickpeas to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through.
Step 5: Combine Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the tomato and spinach mixture. If the mixture seems dry, add more of the reserved pasta water as needed.
Step 6: Season
Stir in the chopped fresh basil. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the finely grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss to combine.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with the shaved Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Variations
Feel free to customize this dish by adding protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestion
Pair with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This helps the pasta cook evenly and adds flavor. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, then reserve a cup of the cooking water before draining.
Sautéing Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat to sauté vegetables. Start by adding garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the tomatoes burst and release their juices to create a rich sauce.
Wilting Greens
Add fresh greens such as spinach to the skillet. A splash of reserved pasta water helps the spinach wilt quickly. Stir until well combined with the sautéed tomatoes.
Combining Ingredients
Add drained chickpeas and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure even coating of the sauce, adjusting the consistency with more reserved pasta water if needed.
Seasoning
Incorporate fresh herbs like basil and season to taste with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for added flavor.
Finishing Touch
Remove from heat and mix in finely grated Parmesan cheese for creaminess. Serve with shaved Parmesan on top for presentation.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute short-cut pasta with any type you prefer, such as spaghetti or penne.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to customize your dish.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for the pasta?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute for traditional pasta.
What can I use instead of chickpeas?
If you don’t have chickpeas, you can use other legumes like white beans or lentils.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. The dish will still be flavorful without the cheese.
Conclusion
This vibrant pasta dish combines short-cut pasta, succulent cherry tomatoes, and fresh baby spinach, creating a delightful meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. The addition of chickpeas enhances the protein content, while the herbs and cheeses bring depth of flavor. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends.
Chickpea and Spinach Salad
Combine chickpeas, fresh baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, and a dressing of olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing salad.
Pasta Primavera
Add a variety of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus to your pasta for a colorful and nutritious twist.
Garlic and Herb Roasted Vegetables
Toss your favorite vegetables with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, then roast until tender for a perfect side dish.
Tomato Basil Soup
Simmer cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil with vegetable broth, then blend for a creamy tomato soup that pairs well with pasta.
Pesto Chickpea Pasta
Mix chickpeas and cooked pasta with fresh basil pesto for a quick and flavorful meal.
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells
Fill pasta shells with a mixture of spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, then bake in marinara sauce for a comforting dish.
