The Simple Slim Kitchen 30-day meal planning system
30 DAYS OF MEALS
🍴 MAKE DINNER EASIER
Tired of Figuring Out What to Cook Every Night?
Get 62 simple recipes, a complete 30-day meal plan, weekly shopping lists and easy meal-prep guidance.
Complete Digital System — Just $17
SEE THE 30-DAY MEAL PLAN →
Instant digital access • One-time purchase
Japanese-style chef knife
UP TO 70% OFF
SMART KITCHEN UPGRADE
A Seriously Sharp Chef Knife Without the Premium Price.
Ice-hardened steel, a comfortable control grip, and a sharp edge made for slicing meat, vegetables, herbs and more.
SPECIAL ONLINE DEAL
FROM $24.99 EACH
with select bundle
SEE TODAY'S KNIFE DEAL →
60-day guarantee • Online offer

Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta for a Quick Dinner

Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta for a Quick Dinner

Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta is a vibrant and refreshing dish that effortlessly combines the heartiness of chickpeas with the brightness of lemon and fresh herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights, this pasta recipe is not only quick to whip up but also packed with flavor and nutrition. The creamy texture from the cheese and the zestiness from the lemon make each bite crave-worthy. Get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a go-to for any night of the week. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

  • Quick to prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes!
  • Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas.
  • Flavorful: Bright and zesty with fresh herbs and lemon.
  • Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
  • Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for the whole family.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz. pasta (any shape you like, preferably whole wheat)
  • 1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
  3. Add the chickpeas to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through.
  4. Stir in the cooked pasta, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well to combine.
  5. Add the chopped spinach, parsley, and basil to the pot, tossing until the greens are wilted and everything is well combined.
  6. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Make sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
  • Reserve some pasta water; it helps create a creamy sauce without additional fat.
  • Feel free to adjust the herbs based on what you have on hand—thyme or dill would also work well.
  • For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp.

Easy Variations

  • Substitute quinoa or rice for a gluten-free option.
  • Toss in seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
  • Swap out Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

What to Serve With It

  • A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
  • Garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping.
  • Roasted vegetables for a hearty side.
  • A glass of chilled white wine to complement the flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to restore moisture.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:

  • 8 oz. pasta (any shape you like, preferably whole wheat)
  • 1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
  3. Add the chickpeas to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through.
  4. Stir in the cooked pasta, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well to combine.
  5. Add the chopped spinach, parsley, and basil to the pot, tossing until the greens are wilted and everything is well combined.
  6. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Notes: For a gluten-free option, substitute quinoa or rice for the pasta.

Your Next 30 Days of Meals — Already Planned
The Simple Slim Kitchen
Stop wondering what to cook every night. Get a complete 30-day meal system that makes meals, shopping & prep easier.
✓ 62 Recipes ✓ 30-Day Plan ✓ Shopping Lists ✓ Meal Prep
Get the complete digital system
$37 $17 TODAY
Instant Access  •  One-Time Purchase  •  60-Day Guarantee
No thanks, continue to CraveFinch.com
Scroll to Top