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In recent years, chickpea pasta has surged in popularity as a nutritious and versatile alternative to traditional wheat-based pasta. This innovative ingredient not only caters to gluten-sensitive individuals but also packs a protein punch, making it a favorite among health-conscious consumers. The Zesty Lemon Dill Chickpea Pasta recipe embodies this trend, combining the hearty texture of chickpea pasta with bright, zesty flavors that make for a delightful and satisfying meal.

Creamy Lemon Dill Chickpea Pasta

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Lemon Dill Chickpea Pasta, a nutritious twist on traditional dishes. This recipe features chickpea pasta, rich in protein and fiber, paired with bright lemon, fresh dill, and crispy chickpeas for a delightful experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, it’s easy to make and customizable to suit your taste. Embrace a healthy, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress! Get ready to enjoy a fresh culinary adventure.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz of pasta (choose from fusilli, penne, or spaghetti)

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 cup of heavy cream or a non-dairy alternative (such as coconut cream)

1 medium lemon, zested and juiced

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon dried dill (or 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped)

Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Fresh dill sprigs for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by filling a large pot with salted water and bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant, taking care not to let it brown to preserve its flavor.

      Add Chickpeas: Stir the drained chickpeas into the skillet with the garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, gently stirring occasionally, allowing them to develop a slightly crispy texture and a golden color.

        Make the Cream Sauce: Turn the heat down to low and add the heavy cream to the chickpea mixture. Integrate the lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and dried dill. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is well combined and warmed through. If you find the sauce too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until achieving your desired creamy consistency.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently introduce the cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss it carefully to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated in the luscious lemon dill sauce. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. If you opt for a richer flavor, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese at this stage.

            Serve: To plate the dish, divide the creamy pasta among serving plates. For an appealing finish, garnish each plate with fresh dill sprigs and a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve this vibrant dish warm, and enjoy every delightful bite!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: For an extra burst of color and freshness, consider adding lemon wedges on the side of each plate, paired with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra chopped dill for garnish. This elevates not only the dish's appearance but also enhances the dining experience!