Easiest Spicy Penne with Crispy Chickpeas!
Tomato Basil Penne: prepare this easy and flavorful pasta dish featuring crispy, spicy Italian chickpeas and a rich pesto sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- kosher salt and pepper
- 2 cans (28 ounce) san marzano tomatoes
- 1/2 cup basil pesto, homemade or store bought
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chickpeas, olive oil, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, fennel, mustard seeds, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Toss well to evenly combine. Cook, stirring often, until the chickpeas are warmed through and golden crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove the chickpeas from the pot to a plate and set aside.
- To the same pot, add the tomatoes - crushing them by hand as you add them. Add the pesto, and a large pinch each of salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, cook stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and then toss the pasta in the red sauce.
- Divide the pasta among bowls. Top with chickpeas and burrata. Garnish with basil.
Notes
- For extra crispy chickpeas, ensure they are thoroughly patted dry before cooking. A bit of moisture will steam them instead of crisping.
- Don't overcook your pasta! Aim for al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce, ensuring a perfect bite.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving burrata as it can become rubbery. Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.
- Don't overcook your pasta! Aim for al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce, ensuring a perfect bite.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving burrata as it can become rubbery. Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.