Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil

Table of Contents

Description

This simple yet delicious pasta is packed with garlicky olive oil flavor, tender broccoli, and protein-rich chickpeas. It’s light, healthy, and comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup canned chickpeas, drained & rinsed
3 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
½ tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional, or vegan alternative)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook pasta & broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil
Add pasta and cook according to package instructions
In the last 3–4 minutes, add broccoli florets to the same pot
Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water

2. Sauté garlic & chickpeas

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat
Add sliced garlic and cook until lightly golden (don’t burn)
Add chickpeas, chili flakes, salt, and pepper
Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly crispy

3. Combine everything

Add drained pasta and broccoli to the pan
Toss everything together
Add a splash of reserved pasta water for a silky texture

4. Finish

Add lemon juice and mix well
Sprinkle Parmesan and fresh parsley

5. Serve

Serve warm with extra cheese and chili flakes if desired 😍

Servings

Serves: 3–4 people

Tips

Don’t overcook broccoli (keep it bright green)
Add extra olive oil for richer flavor
Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option
Add spinach or zucchini for more veggies

Notes

Naturally vegetarian (vegan if you skip cheese)
Great for meal prep (keeps 2–3 days)
Reheat with a splash of water or olive oil

Nutritional Info (Approx per serving)

Calories: 350–450 kcal
Protein: 12–15g
Carbs: 50–60g
Fat: 10–15g
Fiber: 6–8g

Benefits

Chickpeas → plant-based protein & fiber
Broccoli → vitamins & antioxidants
Olive oil → heart-healthy fats
Light, balanced, and nourishing meal

Q & A

Q: Can I make it vegan?
👉 Yes, just skip Parmesan or use vegan cheese

Q: Can I add protein?
👉 Add grilled chicken or tofu

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
👉 Yes, just cook slightly less