Tomato Chickpea Orecchiette

Welcome to this new mini-series where we show you how Saucy products can really lift some simple pasta recipes. Although there are many different ways to use these pots of flavour, pasta is definitely one of the favourites. When tomatoes come into season, you can swap the tin for fresh tomatoes, but this is a great format for all year round. The chilli oil just adds that kick and depth, and the chickpeas provide a good boost of protein.

Serves 1

Ingredients:

  • 90g orecchiette pasta

FOR THE SAUCE:

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 2 garlic cloves, diced

  • 200g tinned cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 tbsp tomato purée

  • 60g jarred chickpeas

  • 25g Grana Padano, grated

  • 60ml starchy pasta water

  • 1 tsp chilli oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Sauce: Set a large frying pan over medium to high heat. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil, followed by the diced garlic. Bring to a simmer and let the garlic turn golden. Add the tomato purée and cook for 2 minutes.

  2. Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Add the halved tinned cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cover with a lid, leaving a small gap, and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

  3. Add Chickpeas: Stir in the chickpeas to the sauce, letting them warm through.

  4. Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the orecchiette pasta in boiling salted water according to the package instructions. Save 60ml of the starchy pasta water before draining.

  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the al dente pasta to the sauce along with some of the reserved pasta water and the grated Grana Padano. Toss everything together and cook for 30 seconds, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta. Check the seasoning and add more pasta water if needed.

  6. Serve: Serve the Tomato Chickpea Orecchiette with a spoonful of chilli oil for an extra kick.

This simple yet delicious Tomato Chickpea Orecchiette is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cosy weekend meal. The combination of rich tomato flavours, protein-packed chickpeas, and spicy chilli oil will make it a favourite in your kitchen! Enjoy!

DINNER, ITALIAN, PASTANina Parkerpasta, tomato sauce, Italian, easy recipe