Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup vegetable broth; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta because it combines bright citrus notes with hearty ingredients, making it a perfect meal any day of the week. The creaminess comes from a simple sauce that’s not only quick to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. As a busy person, I appreciate recipes that feel indulgent but don’t require hours in the kitchen. This dish is a delightful way to enjoy plant-based ingredients, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:58:20.314Z

When I first made this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together. The key to its vibrant flavor lies in the fresh lemon juice and zest, which I add just before serving to maintain their bright profile. I find this method allows the flavors to pop, making every bite refreshing and delightful.

One of my favorite tips is to reserve some of the pasta cooking water. Adding a splash of it to the sauce helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency without feeling heavy. This little trick keeps the dish light and allows the rich flavors of garlic and lemon to shine through!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your day
Creamy texture complemented by chickpeas for protein
Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Enhancing Creaminess

The creamy texture of this dish is achieved through a simple blend of vegetable broth and the natural starches released from the penne pasta. Cook it just until al dente to ensure the pasta maintains its structure and contributes to the sauce's creaminess. If you prefer an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut cream or a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free twist.

For those who enjoy a bit of extra tang, a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan right before serving can elevate the dish further. Just remember to adjust the salt levels as you enhance the flavor with additional ingredients.

Seasoning and Flavor Balancing

The balance of lemon juice and zest is critical in this recipe, as it provides the bright flavor that counteracts the creaminess. Always taste as you go; the acidity from the lemon should be prominent but not overwhelming. If the sauce feels too acidic, a pinch of sugar can help to mellow out the sharpness—this is especially useful if your lemons are particularly tart.

Don't hesitate to customize the seasoning! Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano could be added alongside or in place of the parsley for a different herbal note. Black pepper adds a welcome heat, while a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can bring some zest to those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook the pasta and sauce separately and store them in airtight containers. This way, you can enjoy the dish throughout the week without losing freshness; just combine them before serving, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to rehydrate the sauce.

For freezing, ensure the pasta is slightly undercooked before freezing, as it will continue to cook when reheated. This method helps avoid mushiness. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water or more broth to achieve the right consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful meal.

For the Pasta

8 ounces penne pasta
1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure to have your ingredients prepped and ready for easy cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a quick and delicious pasta dish.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the Chickpeas

Add the chickpeas to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the vegetable broth, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper. Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Stir in chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy this delicious pasta dish with a sprinkle of additional parsley if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You can also substitute the chickpeas with white beans if you prefer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, substitute the penne pasta with a gluten-free alternative made from lentils or chickpeas. These options not only maintain the protein level but also add different flavor profiles, enhancing the overall dish. Simultaneously, ensure to check the cooking times as they may vary significantly based on the type of pasta.

For those without access to fresh parsley, a sprinkle of dried herbs can work in a pinch. Use about a third of the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh, as their potency is stronger. Dried dill pairs well too, offering a complimentary flavor to the lemon.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta on a bed of fresh spinach or arugula for added texture and nutrition. The greens will slightly wilt from the heat of the pasta, creating a lovely and vibrant plate. For garnishing, I suggest a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Considering a protein boost? Grilled tofu or seared tempeh works wonderfully alongside this pasta. Just cube and season your choice with a bit of lemon juice, salt, and pepper before adding it to the skillet when you incorporate the chickpeas, ensuring everything is heated through and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta will work just as well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan. Just ensure the broth you use is vegetable-based.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers would be great additions. Just sauté them along with the garlic.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.