Harissa Chickpea Pasta Dish Recipe

Introduction

This Harissa Chickpea Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines spicy harissa with hearty chickpeas and tender pasta. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Ingredients

• 12 oz dried short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
• Salt, for boiling water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp harissa paste (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 14 oz can diced tomatoes
• 2 (14 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup vegetable broth or water
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
• Optional: crumbled feta cheese, to serve

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Step 3: Add minced garlic, harissa paste, ground cumin, and smoked paprika to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Stir in diced tomatoes, drained chickpeas, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Step 5: Cover the skillet and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, loosen it by adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Step 8: Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs and optionally topped with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy contrast.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of harissa paste or substitute with a milder chili paste.
• You can use fresh tomatoes when in season for a fresher sauce.
• Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture and nutty flavor.
• Swap parsley with cilantro, mint, or basil to vary the fresh herb notes.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, the recipe is naturally vegan if you omit the optional feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Is harissa very spicy?

Harissa varies in heat depending on the brand or recipe, but it generally has a moderate level of spiciness. You can adjust the amount used to suit your heat preference.