Pasta With Broccoli And Garbanzo Beans
A flavorful pasta dish featuring broccoli and garbanzo beans, infused with garlic and white wine, perfect for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly meal with Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 6 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 9 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in 1 cup of dry white wine and simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the rinsed and drained can of 15 oz. garbanzo beans and a pinch of dried crushed red pepper.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Meanwhile, cook 1 lb. of gnocchi or small shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Add 1 stalk of broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the broccoli and chickpeas.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or zest before serving. If you'd like to make this dish heartier, you can substitute the garbanzo beans with cannellini beans or add cooked chicken. Feel free to use any type of pasta, but keep in mind that gnocchi will give a delightful texture. You can also incorporate spinach or kale for additional greens.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh Fall Salad With Parmesan Dressing for a complete meal. For a light side, consider serving it with crusty bread. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors of the dish well. Garnish with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a vibrant finish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to the skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Broccoli And Garbanzo Beans contains roughly 561 calories, with 10g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be a convenient alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet. Keep in mind that frozen broccoli may require a shorter cooking time, so add it towards the end to avoid overcooking.
Is this dish vegan-friendly?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. There are many vegan cheese options available that melt well and can provide a similar flavor profile to Parmesan.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and broccoli separately, then combine everything just before serving. This way, you maintain the best texture and flavor. Store the components separately in the fridge to preserve freshness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).