Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil

Name: Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 250g Pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli); 300g Broccoli Florets (fresh or frozen); 1 can (400g) Chickpeas, drained & rinsed; 4–5 cloves Garlic, minced; 60ml Olive Oil; ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes; 60ml Vegetable Broth; 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice; 30g Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional); Salt & Black Pepper to taste

By: ALICE PUCK | Published onFebruary 7, 2026

Broccoli chickpea pasta with garlic and olive oil on a plate.

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Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil is a delightful dish that speaks to the heart of home cooking. Imagine a vibrant plate filled with al dente pasta, crisp broccoli, and nutritious chickpeas, all drizzled with a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil. This recipe showcases not only the beauty of simple ingredients but also the magic of getting a nourishing meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re rushing through a weeknight dinner or enjoying a relaxed weekend brunch, this dish shines in its versatility and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are so many reasons to dig into Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil. First and foremost, it’s a quick and budget-friendly meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. This dish is also packed with wholesome ingredients, catering to both vegan diets and cheese lovers alike—simply skip the Parmesan if you want a dairy-free option.

Kids will approve of its comforting flavors, while adults appreciate the nutrition packed in. It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies without anyone noticing.

“This pasta dish has rapidly become a family favorite! It’s delicious, quick to make, and I love how healthy it is. The garlic oil brings everything together perfectly.” – A happy home cook

Preparing Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil

Making this dish is as straightforward as it gets. You cook the pasta until it’s al dente, sauté some garlic, and then toss in broccoli and chickpeas with a splash of vegetable broth and a squeeze of lemon juice. The beauty lies in how all these elements come together in just a few steps. Plus, if you need a little extra sauce, you can always use that reserved pasta water for added creaminess and flavor.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to create a wholesome meal:

250g Pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
300g Broccoli Florets (fresh or frozen)
1 can (400g) Chickpeas, drained & rinsed
4–5 cloves Garlic, minced
60ml Olive Oil
¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
60ml Vegetable Broth
1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
30g Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional)
Salt & Black Pepper to taste

Feel free to use any pasta shape you love, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or add-ins!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of boiling, salted water. Aim for al dente—usually, about 8–10 minutes—then reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining it.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic and red pepper flakes for about a minute until fragrant, stirring gently to avoid burning the garlic.
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes until they’re tender-crisp—this helps retain their vibrant green color and nutrients.
Next, toss in the chickpeas, vegetable broth, and lemon juice. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes, absorbing all those lovely flavors.
Finally, add the drained pasta into the skillet, mixing everything well. If the sauce seems too thick, use some of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

To serve this dish, imagine a bowl of warm pasta piled high with bright green broccoli and golden chickpeas. You can create a beautiful contrast by garnishing with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. If you want to take it up a notch, toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for added flavor and color.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Broccoli Chickpea Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent it from getting dry. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Don’t overcook the pasta! It’s key to achieving that perfect al dente texture. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly when you combine it with the hot sauce.
Mind your garlic. Cooking garlic too quickly can turn it bitter. Keep the heat controlled and stir often when sautéing.
Broccoli options. If using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it. Just add it directly to the skillet and give it a few extra minutes to cook through.

Creative Twists

Feel free to play around with this recipe! Consider adding:

Protein enhancements: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu could all work wonderfully with this dish.
Different flavors: Experiment with adding lemon zest for a zestier profile, or try different herbs like oregano or thyme.
Add some crunch: Topping with toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add an enjoyable texture contrast.

Common Questions

What is the best pasta to use for this recipe?

You can use any pasta shape you love, but I suggest penne, rotini, or fusilli as they hold the sauce well and offer a delightful bite.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe. Just add it directly to the skillet without thawing.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

You can have Broccoli Chickpea Pasta ready in about 20-30 minutes, making it a perfect quick meal solution.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is inherently vegan. If you choose to include the Parmesan, just make sure to use a vegan alternative.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely! Opt for gluten-free pasta varieties, and ensure all other ingredients like broth are certified gluten-free.

How can I store leftovers safely?

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain the dish’s flavor.

What can I add for more protein?

You can add grilled chicken, turkey, or roasted chickpeas as a protein boost. Tofu or tempeh would also be excellent options.

Can I freeze Broccoli Chickpea Pasta?

While it’s not ideal, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just be aware that the texture of the broccoli may change upon reheating.