The Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the warmth of North African spices with hearty chickpeas and pasta. This dish is perfect for weeknight meals and is family-friendly, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you crave something satisfying yet quick to prepare. The bold flavors of harissa blend beautifully with the pasta, while the chickpeas add a delightful texture and protein boost. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas stands out for several reasons that make it a must-try in your kitchen. First and foremost, the flavor profile is exquisite. The harissa sauce, known for its spicy and smoky notes, elevates the dish to new heights, making each bite a burst of taste that lingers on the palate. This dish also offers incredible ease of preparation. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time, perfect for those busy weekdays or when unexpected guests arrive.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify the ingredients based on your pantry staples or personal preferences. Want to add more veggies? Toss in some spinach or bell peppers. Looking for a heartier meal? Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp. The Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas is a blank canvas that allows you to play with flavors while keeping the essence of the dish intact. Finally, the texture is superb; the creamy chickpeas provide a nice contrast to the al dente pasta, creating a satisfying mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients to make The recipe :

To create the Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas, you will need the following ingredients:

Pasta: Approximately 8 ounces of your favorite pasta such as penne or fusilli works best in this recipe. Pasta serves as the foundation of this dish, soaking up the delicious harissa sauce and providing a satisfying base. Choose whole grain or gluten-free options according to dietary preferences.
Harissa Paste: About 3 tablespoons of harissa paste adds depth and heat to the dish. This North African chili paste is made from a blend of spices, chilies, and herbs, bringing a unique warmth and flavor that is essential to the Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas. Adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.

Chickpeas: One 15-ounce can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed, adds a hearty protein source, making this dish filling and nutritious. Chickpeas also contribute a creamy texture that complements the pasta perfectly.
Garlic: Use 2 cloves of minced garlic for an aromatic base. Garlic enhances the overall flavor, infusing the dish with its savory essence. Sautéing garlic until fragrant before adding the other ingredients is crucial for creating a robust flavor.
Olive Oil: Approximately 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil for sautéing and flavor. Olive oil not only helps in cooking but also adds richness to the dish. It is also a healthier fat choice that complements the Mediterranean flavors.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice from one lemon adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the harissa and olive oil. This ingredient is essential for elevating the flavors and making every bite refreshing.
Vegetable Broth: About 1 cup of low-sodium vegetable broth is used to create a flavorful sauce. The broth serves as the cooking liquid for the pasta, ensuring that each strand is infused with the delicious harissa flavor.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, these staples enhance all the flavors in the dish. Seasoning appropriately is crucial to ensure a well-balanced flavor profile and to make the Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas truly memorable.

Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish adds a pop of color and freshness. These herbs not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a lovely aromatic contrast to the spiciness of the dish.

How to Make Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas ?

To prepare the Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas, follow these detailed steps for a perfect result:

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together and ensure even cooking.

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this can lead to a bitter taste.
Next, add the 3 tablespoons of harissa paste to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the garlic and oil. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the harissa to release its aromas and deepen in flavor. This step is crucial for the overall taste of your Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas.
Once the harissa is fragrant, pour in 1 cup of low-sodium vegetable broth and stir to mix everything together. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.

After the pasta is cooked, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta, making sure to shake off any excess water. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the harissa sauce.
Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring that each strand is coated evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. The starch from the pasta water helps to bind the sauce beautifully.
Next, incorporate the drained chickpeas into the pasta, stirring gently to combine. The chickpeas should be heated through but maintain their texture, providing a hearty element to the dish.

Now, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the pasta, adding brightness and balancing the flavors. Stir well to distribute the lemon juice evenly throughout the dish.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preferences. Remember that the harissa already has some spice, so be mindful of the seasoning.
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve hot, ensuring that each plate is vibrant and inviting.

Tips for Variations:

Enhance your Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas experience with these creative variations:

Add vegetables: Incorporate seasonal veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Sauté them along with the garlic for added nutrition and color. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more visually appealing.
Protein boost: For those looking to increase their protein intake, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Simply cook these proteins separately and mix them in with the pasta and chickpeas for a heartier meal.

Cheesy delight: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or feta on top just before serving. The creaminess of cheese can provide a lovely contrast to the spicy harissa and elevate the overall taste of the dish.
Nuts and seeds: For added crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds. These add texture and a nutty flavor that complements the pasta beautifully.
Different spices: Experiment with additional spices such as cumin or coriander to enhance the flavor profile. This variation can introduce new layers of complexity to the Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas.

Serving Suggestions:

Serving your Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas can be as versatile as the recipe itself. Here are some ideas:

Pairing with a fresh salad: Serve the pasta alongside a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the harissa pasta perfectly.
Accompanying bread: Offer warm, crusty bread or pita on the side for dipping. This adds a comforting element to the meal and is perfect for scooping up any remaining sauce.

Ideal for gatherings: This dish is an excellent option for potlucks or family gatherings. It’s easy to make in larger quantities and can be served at room temperature without losing its appeal.
Perfect for Ramadan: The Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas can be a great choice for iftar meals during Ramadan. It is filling and can be prepared in advance, allowing you to focus on other preparations.
Storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.

FAQ:

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers of the Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet, adding a little water or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you like, such as whole wheat, gluten-free, or even spiralized vegetables for a low-carb option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.

Is harissa paste very spicy?

Harissa paste can vary in spice level depending on the brand and ingredients. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and gradually add more to suit your taste. It’s easy to adjust according to your preference.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

The Simple Harissa Pasta with Chickpeas is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat. You can also make it vegan by ensuring that any cheese added is plant-based. Enjoy the rich flavors without any animal products.