Pasta e Ceci Recipe

Pasta e Ceci is the kind of rustic Italian comfort food that always hits the spot — hearty yet silky, rich without being heavy, and full of kitchen staples that sing together in perfect harmony. Imagine tender pasta and creamy chickpeas nestled in a tomato-kissed broth, punctuated by sweet onions and carrots, then finished with a flurry of Parmesan. This is the dish you turn to when you want something deeply satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Trust me, there’s nothing cozier than a steaming bowl of Pasta e Ceci on your table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple isn’t boring, especially when it comes to Pasta e Ceci. Every ingredient in this recipe pulls double duty, adding a unique note or texture and building the soul-soothing flavors people crave from this classic dish. Here’s what you’ll need, along with why each one matters.

• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and a silken feel to the base of the soup.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: For that unmistakable fruity aroma and depth you expect in Italian dishes.
• Sweet Onion: Its mellow sweetness forms the savory backbone of the broth.
• Carrot: Lends a subtle sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
• Garlic: A few cloves infuse the dish with warmth and fragrant intensity.
• Tomato Paste: Delivers concentrated tomato flavor for that classic Italian undertone.
• Dried Oregano: Aromatic and earthy, this seasoning echoes the spirit of the Mediterranean.
• Dried Thyme: Brings in a gentle, savory herbaceousness that marries beautifully with chickpeas.
• Chickpeas (Canned): Star ingredient, giving the dish its creamy, satisfying bite.
• Dried Ditalini Pasta: These tiny tubes trap broth and flavors in every forkful.
• Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth: The foundation that lets every other ingredient shine—plus, you control the salt.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A finishing flourish to brighten and balance the flavors.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Savory, nutty, and a little indulgent—don’t skip it!

How to Make Pasta e Ceci

Step 1: Create the Aromatic Base

Begin by heating the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter melts, toss in the diced onion and carrot. Let them sauté gently, stirring often, until they turn soft and fragrant—about five minutes is perfect. This base is where the magic starts, giving your Pasta e Ceci a sweet and savory foundation that’s absolutely irresistible.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Next, sprinkle in the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute, being careful not to let it brown. Stir in that luscious tomato paste, making sure it mixes well with the softened vegetables. These steps deepen the flavor, amplifying every bite with a hint of tomato richness balanced by warm, mellow garlic.

Step 3: Build Flavors with Herbs and Chickpeas

Now it’s time to stir in the dried oregano, thyme, and those star chickpeas. Add the ditalini pasta and pour in the vegetable broth, giving everything a good stir. This is when Pasta e Ceci starts to look like something you want to dive into—herby, hearty, and full of promise.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring your pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to simmer gently. Let it bubble away for about 10 minutes, making sure to stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick. The pasta should be tender but still have a little bite—al dente is the goal! This short simmer pulls all those flavors together while the chickpeas become wonderfully creamy and the pasta soaks up all the goodness.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Cheese

At this point, taste your Pasta e Ceci and add more salt and pepper if needed. Stir in a generous handful of grated Parmesan, letting it melt into the broth for that signature creamy-tangy finish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Ladle the Pasta e Ceci into bowls—make it as brothy or thick as you like—and top with a little extra Parmesan for good measure. This is comfort food in its purest form, always ready to warm you up from the inside out.

How to Serve Pasta e Ceci

Garnishes

I love a final dusting of freshly grated Parmesan and a swirl of extra virgin olive oil right before serving. If you want a little kick, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or even a hint of red pepper flakes works wonders. Chopped parsley adds a fresh, green spark that brightens the whole bowl.

Side Dishes

Pasta e Ceci is filling on its own but pairs beautifully with garlic-rubbed toasted bread or a crisp Italian salad. If you want to build a bigger meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a platter of marinated olives for a real trattoria-style spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Pasta e Ceci in individual soup crocks for a bistro feel, or go family-style straight from the pot at the table for rustic charm. For gatherings, offer toppings like lemon zest, chili oil, or herb-infused olive oil so everyone can customize their bowl. It’s a hit at potlucks and dinner parties alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Pasta e Ceci cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld and get even deeper, making leftovers something to look forward to!

Freezing

Pasta e Ceci freezes surprisingly well, though the pasta may soften a bit once thawed. If you plan to freeze, cook the pasta slightly under al dente. Cool the soup, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the soup gently over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. Stir regularly and heat until piping hot. You can also microwave individual portions—just cover and stir a couple of times for even reheating.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! Soak and cook dried chickpeas in advance, then use them as you would canned. You’ll get a heartier texture and an extra layer of homemade charm.

Is Pasta e Ceci vegetarian?

It sure is, as long as you stick with vegetable broth and vegetarian Parmesan. It’s the perfect meatless meal that’s still incredibly satisfying.

What other pasta shapes can I use?

While ditalini is traditional and iconic, small shapes like elbow macaroni or tiny shells work well if that’s what you have on hand. The important part is choosing something small that will catch the broth and stay tender.

How can I make Pasta e Ceci gluten-free?

Just swap the regular ditalini pasta for your favorite gluten-free brand! Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you won’t be missing out on flavor or comfort.

Can I skip the cheese for a dairy-free version?

Definitely. Omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative. The dish will still be creamy and delicious—just add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon for brightness if you like.

Final Thoughts

With a handful of pantry staples, Pasta e Ceci delivers a big, warm Italian hug in every bowl. If you’ve never made it before, you’re in for a treat, and if it’s already a favorite, this recipe is sure to hit all the right notes. Cozy, nourishing, and always satisfying—give it a try, and don’t forget to share the love!

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