Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g pasta (any shape you prefer); 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta, especially when I'm looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon combined with the creaminess of the sauce is simply irresistible! I whip this up when I need something comforting and delicious, and the combination of chickpeas adds a nice protein boost. It's a vegetarian dish that even my non-vegetarian friends rave about! Trust me, once you try this tangy pasta, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:16:20.200Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to create a delicious and fulfilling dish. The chickpeas not only provide protein but also a wonderful texture that complements the silky sauce. I remember the first time I squeezed fresh lemon juice over the pasta; the flavor transformation was incredible!

One tip I learned along the way is to reserve some pasta water before draining. Adding a splash of it to the sauce brings everything together beautifully and enhances the creaminess. It’s such a small step that makes a big difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your day
Creamy sauce that clings perfectly to pasta
Nutritious chickpeas for a protein punch

      

Perfecting the Creaminess

The key to achieving a luscious, creamy texture in this dish lies in how you combine the heavy cream or coconut cream with the vegetable broth. Use medium heat to give the mixture time to heat thoroughly without boiling, which can affect the cream's consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye out for a slight simmer to form small bubbles, making it perfect for absorption by the pasta later.

If you prefer a lighter version, consider using a plant-based milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch for creaminess, or a blended cashew cream for a nutty twist. Just be mindful to balance the liquid-to-solid ratio so it clings beautifully to the pasta without becoming too thin.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Fresh herbs can elevate the dish immensely. While fresh parsley is commonly used for garnish, consider adding a handful of fresh basil or even dill to complement the lemon's brightness. When using fresh herbs, add them at the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant flavor and color. The aroma that wafts through your kitchen as they hit the pan is simply irresistible!

For a bit of spice, red pepper flakes can be sprinkled in during the sauce preparation stage. This not only adds warmth but also balances the creaminess with a little kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference; a pinch will do if you’re looking for subtle warmth.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta

Pasta and Chickpeas

400g pasta (any shape you prefer)
1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Mix and match the types of pasta and vegetables to match your taste!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chickpeas and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

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

Mix Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious creamy lemon chickpea pasta!

Feel free to adjust the seasoning as per your taste!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. This pasta is versatile and can easily accommodate your favorite vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta with a light, crisp salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of feta makes an excellent companion, enhancing the dish's zest without overpowering it. For a heartier option, serve it alongside rosemary garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce.

Leftover pasta can be reheated the next day; simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water in a pan over low heat to prevent it from drying out. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it almost better the next day!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to meal prep, this dish is perfect for making ahead. The chickpeas provide a hearty base that keeps well, and the pasta will hold its texture if stored properly. Allow the pasta to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last up to three days. Just be sure to keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the creamy consistency.

For freezing, I recommend freezing the sauce in a separate container and cooking fresh pasta when you're ready to enjoy it again. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy. To reheat, thaw the sauce overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently over low heat before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works great in this recipe! Just follow the package instructions for cooking times.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream for a vegan version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

→ What can I serve this pasta with?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!