Harissa Chickpea Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Harissa Chickpea Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the smoky heat of harissa with the comforting texture of pasta and protein-rich chickpeas. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta
• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons harissa paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the chickpeas to the skillet and stir in the harissa paste. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chickpeas are heated through and coated in the spicy sauce.
4. Step 4: Toss the cooked pasta with the harissa chickpeas in the skillet. Add lemon juice and stir to combine.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
• Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of harissa paste or substitute with a milder chili paste.
• Top with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy contrast.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned chickpeas straight from the can?

Yes, just be sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium before cooking.

Is harissa paste very spicy?

Harissa can vary in heat depending on the brand, but it typically has a moderate spicy kick. Adjust the quantity based on your tolerance or taste preferences.

Harissa Chickpea Pasta Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 62 reviews

A vibrant and spicy Harissa Chickpea Pasta that combines al dente pasta with flavorful sautéed chickpeas tossed in a zesty harissa sauce, garlic, and fresh lemon juice, garnished with parsley for a fresh finish. This easy, protein-packed dish brings bold North African flavors to your weeknight dinner table.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: North African
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
• Salt for pasta water

For the Harissa Chickpeas

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons harissa paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 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. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chickpeas: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chickpeas and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to crisp slightly.
3. Add Harissa Paste: Stir in the harissa paste, coating the chickpeas evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss Pasta and Chickpeas: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with chickpeas. Pour in lemon juice and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta, give a final toss, and serve immediately for a flavorful, spicy meal.

Notes

• You can use any type of short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni for this recipe.
• Adjust the amount of harissa paste to your spice preference.
• For a creamier texture, add a splash of pasta cooking water when tossing the pasta and chickpeas.
• Garnish with additional lemon zest or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor.
• This dish is suitable for vegetarians and can be made vegan by ensuring the pasta does not contain eggs.

Keywords: Harissa, Chickpea Pasta, Spicy Pasta, North African Cuisine, Vegetarian Dinner, Easy Weeknight Meal, Harissa Paste Recipe