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Vegan Chickpea Pasta with Smoky Paprika and Bright Notes

This vegan chickpea pasta features tender pasta coated in a natural, creamy sauce made from cooked chickpeas, seasoned with smoky paprika for depth, and brightened with lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. The dish is finished with optional fresh herbs and colorful add-ins like cherry tomatoes or spinach, resulting in a vibrant, hearty, and nourishing meal with a satisfying texture and flavor profile.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice) preferably whole grain or gluten-free if desired
  • 1 can cooked chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika adds depth of flavor
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for brightness
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach optional for added color and texture
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, optional
  • Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, cilantro) as desired chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Strainer
  • Skillet or sauté pan

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic if using, and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  3. Add the drained chickpeas to the skillet, along with smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the chickpeas with the spice, and cook for about 3–4 minutes until heated through and slightly toasted.
  4. Use a fork or potato masher to mash some of the chickpeas in the skillet, creating a slightly creamy texture that will coat the pasta later. Cook for another minute.
  5. Stir in lemon juice or balsamic vinegar to brighten the flavors and balance the smoky spice. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat evenly with the chickpea mixture. Warm everything together for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld.
  7. If using cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach, fold them into the pasta now, just to warm through and add color and texture.
  8. Transfer the pasta to serving plates, garnish with chopped fresh herbs, and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite fresh herbs or add protein like sautéed tofu for extra richness. This dish is versatile and forgiving, perfect for a quick, wholesome meal.