Print

Harissa Chickpea Pasta 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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