Are you ready to transform your ordinary weeknight meal into a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of New Orleans? This Creole Chick Peas with Pasta recipe is not just a dish – it's a flavor-packed journey that combines the hearty richness of chickpeas, the zesty kick of Creole seasoning, and perfectly cooked pasta into one irresistible meal. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick dinner or a flavor enthusiast craving something extraordinary, this recipe promises to deliver maximum taste with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Creole
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can chick peas, drained
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the drained chick peas and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine all ingredients. Sprinkle Creole seasoning over the mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- In a separate pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, simmer the chick pea mixture on low heat, allowing flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add directly to the skillet with chick pea mixture. Gently toss to combine, ensuring pasta is evenly coated with the Creole-style sauce.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to further integrate. Serve hot, garnishing with optional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- For the most authentic Creole flavor, use a high-quality Creole seasoning blend. If possible, look for a blend from Louisiana for that genuine taste.
- Don't rush the onion and garlic sautéing process. Allowing them to caramelize slightly will develop a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chick pea mixture.
- For added protein, consider stirring in some diced chicken or shrimp during the final cooking stage.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro as a garnish to add a fresh, bright note to the finished dish.
- If you want a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- Leftover dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
