Creamy Pasta and Chickpeas (Pasta e Ceci Cremosa)
Category: Main Courses
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fusilli | 320g |
| Pre-cooked chickpeas | 350g |
| Fresh rosemary | To taste |
| Fresh thyme | To taste |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Dried chili pepper | To taste |
| Ricotta cheese (cow’s milk) | 100g |
| Fine salt | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Base:
Begin by heating a splash of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the clove of garlic, smashed with the side of a knife, and sauté for a couple of minutes, allowing the garlic to release its aroma. -
Add Herbs and Chickpeas:
While the garlic is cooking, finely chop the rosemary and set it aside. Add the pre-cooked chickpeas to the pan, along with the chopped rosemary, fresh thyme leaves, and a sprinkle of dried chili pepper. Reserve a few chickpeas for garnishing later. -
Make the Creamy Base:
Stir in the ricotta cheese, breaking it down into the mixture. Pour in a ladle of hot water from your kettle to help soften the ingredients. Blend everything together with an immersion blender until smooth and creamy. -
Crisp the Chickpeas:
In a separate pan, drizzle a bit more olive oil and add the reserved chickpeas. Fry them over high heat for a couple of minutes, until they are golden and crispy. Remove them from the heat and set aside. -
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the fusilli. Cook for approximately 10 minutes or until al dente. -
Combine Pasta and Cream:
While the pasta cooks, return to the pan with the creamy chickpea mixture. Add a ladle of pasta water to the sauce to help thin it out and mix everything well. -
Toss Pasta in the Cream Sauce:
Once the pasta is done, drain it and toss it directly into the pan with the creamy chickpea sauce. Stir well, adding another ladle of pasta water to help combine and achieve the perfect creamy consistency. -
Serve:
Serve the creamy pasta and chickpeas topped with the crispy chickpeas and an optional extra sprinkle of dried chili pepper for a little kick. Drizzle with a touch of extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish that blends the richness of ricotta with the earthy goodness of chickpeas and fresh herbs.
This Pasta e Ceci Cremosa recipe is a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish, providing a creamy, savory experience with every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal!
