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
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.