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Looking for a delicious, nutritious meal that’s easy to whip up and bursting with flavor? This Roasted Veggies Chickpea Pasta has you covered! Packed with plant-based protein, hearty roasted vegetables, and a satisfying pasta base, it’s a dish that will leave you feeling full and happy—without missing the meat. Whether you’re following a plant-based diet or just looking for a healthier pasta option, this recipe is a winner for any weeknight dinner or meal prep session!
Why Chickpea Pasta?
Consuming more plant-based sources of protein is beneficial not only for the environment but also for our health. Packed with anti-inflammatory nutrients, they can help in reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, and promoting muscle growth. In addition, opting for chickpea pasta instead of regular white pasta can help in keeping us fuller for longer, thanks to its high protein and fiber content.
This chickpea pasta recipe is a perfect example of a Whole Food Plant-Based (WFPB) meal. Eating WFPB means focusing on plants (veggies, fruits, nuts, and seeds) while avoiding highly processed foods and ingredients.
Health Benefits of Chickpea Pasta
Chickpea pasta is a fantastic alternative to regular pasta, packed with protein and fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to add more plant-based foods to your diet or just want a healthier option for pasta night.
Lower Carbs, Steady Energy
One of the best things about chickpea pasta is that it’s lower in carbs than traditional pasta. This makes it a great option for anyone trying to manage their carb intake, and it can even help regulate blood sugar levels, which is especially helpful for those with diabetes or anyone wanting steady energy throughout the day.
Fewer Calories, but Still Delicious
Chickpea pasta is also lower in calories compared to regular pasta, so it’s a smart choice if you’re watching your calorie intake. Plus, because it has a lower glycemic index (GI), it won’t cause those spikes in blood sugar that can leave you feeling sluggish later.
Naturally Gluten-Free
If you’re avoiding gluten, chickpea pasta is a naturally gluten-free option that doesn’t sacrifice taste or texture. Popular brands like Barilla chickpea pasta and Banza chickpea pasta (I also get this brand super affordably in bulk at Costco!) are well-loved for their smooth texture and delicious flavor, making them perfect for everyone at the dinner table.
Nutrient-Packed and Heart-Healthy
Not only is chickpea pasta high in protein, but it’s also loaded with important nutrients like iron, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients support everything from heart health to energy production, giving you more than just a tasty meal.
Perfect for Plant-Based Diets
Chickpea pasta fits perfectly into a Whole Food Plant-Based (WFPB) or vegan lifestyle. It’s a protein-rich, fiber-filled option that’s versatile, satisfying, and great for your health. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking a quick weeknight dinner, chickpea pasta has you covered!
Recipe Variations
This roasted veggies chickpea pasta recipe is already super versatile, but there are plenty of fun ways you can change it up to suit your preferences or add variety to your meal rotation. Here are some simple ideas for making it your own!
Switch Up Your Pasta Shapes
Variety is the spice of life, right? You can easily swap out the pasta shape to keep things interesting. Chickpea pasta comes in all kinds of shapes like rotini, penne, and elbow macaroni. Try using chickpea pasta rotini to capture more sauce in the spirals, or opt for chickpea pasta penne for a more classic feel. Each shape brings a different texture and feel to the dish, making it fun to experiment with.
Spaghetti
Penne
- Banza Penne Chickpea Pasta
- Barilla Penne Chickpea Pasta
- Explore Cuisine Penne Chickpea Pasta
- Simply Nature Penne Chickpea Pasta (Aldi)
- Chickapea Organic Penne Chickpea & Lentil Pasta
Rotini
- Banza Rotini Chickpea Pasta
- Barilla Rotini Chickpea Pasta
- Explore Cuisine Rotini Chickpea Pasta
- Simply Nature Rotini Chickpea Pasta (Aldi)
Fusilli
- Explore Cuisine Fusilli Chickpea Pasta
- Chickapea Organic Fusilli Chickpea & Lentil Pasta
Cavatappi
- Banza Cavatappi Chickpea Pasta
Shells
- Chickapea Organic Shells Chickpea & Lentil Pasta
Macaroni
- Banza Macaroni Chickpea Pasta
- Chickapea Organic Macaroni Chickpea & Lentil Pasta
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by skipping the Parmesan cheese. If you’re looking for a full vegan chickpea pasta recipe, you can stick to plant-based garnishes like nutritional yeast or a sprinkle of your favorite dairy-free cheese. Whether you’re serving up Barilla chickpea pasta or another gluten-free option, it’s a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table.
Ingredient Selection Tips
Cherry Tomatoes
Choose firm tomatoes with deep color to ensure they are mature. Avoid dark spots or yellowish ones.
Sweet Pepper
Look for firm, crispy, shiny peppers that feel heavy in your hand. The stem should be green and fresh.
Cauliflower
When choosing cauliflower for this chickpea pasta recipe, look for a firm head with tightly packed florets. The florets should be creamy white without any brown or soft spots, which can indicate aging or over-ripeness. Fresh cauliflower will have bright green leaves surrounding the head. A good quality cauliflower ensures that your roasted veggies turn out crisp and full of flavor, complementing the nutty chickpea pasta perfectly.
Noteworthy Health Benefits
Cherry Tomatoes
The cherry tomatoes give the pasta both a sweet and sour touch and are boosted with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids. They are also rich in carotenoids such as lycopene, beta carotene, and lutein, and their caloric density is very low, which makes them perfect to assist with weight loss and maintenance goals.
Sweet Pepper
Sweet peppers add a slightly tangy feel to the dish and are super-rich in vitamins and minerals. They contain antioxidants, which are vital for overall health. Consuming them regularly in our diet can help combat flu and promote eye health.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is not just a delicious addition to this dish; it’s also incredibly nutritious. It’s low in calories yet rich in fiber, supporting digestive health and helping you feel full longer. It’s packed with important vitamins like C and K, and it’s also a great source of antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
For those following a Whole Food Plant-Based (WFPB) or gluten-free diet, cauliflower is an excellent fit. It adds a satisfying texture to the dish without adding extra carbs, making it a great low-carb option. Roasting cauliflower brings out a caramelized, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with chickpea pasta, enhancing the overall taste and nutrition of the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Once cooked, chickpea pasta can last in the fridge for up to 5 days if stored in an airtight container. It’s a great option for meal prep! If you’re planning to store the pasta with sauce or roasted veggies, make sure the container is sealed tightly to preserve freshness.
Chickpea pasta cooks just like regular pasta. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the chickpea pasta, and cook for about 7-9 minutes until al dente. Be sure to follow the package instructions for the brand you’re using, like Banza or Barilla, as cooking times may vary slightly.
Yes, chickpea pasta is a healthier alternative to traditional white pasta. It’s rich in protein and fiber, which help with muscle growth, digestion, and keeping you full longer. It also has a lower glycemic index (GI) and fewer carbs, making it a great option for those managing blood sugar or following a low-carb diet.
This Roasted Veggies Chickpea Pasta isn’t just a flavorful, comforting dish—it’s a nutritious way to fuel your body with plant-based goodness. Whether you’re prepping meals for the week or cooking up a quick dinner, this recipe offers the perfect balance of taste and health benefits. With every bite, you’re nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients that support your long-term wellness. Give it a try, and feel great about what’s on your plate!
If you loved this recipe – comment below! Also check out my similar recipes: Italian Chickpea Pasta with Sautéed Veggies and Lemon Herb Pasta with Chickpeas and Veggies (high protein, gluten-free) 🍋🌿
Roasted Vegetable Chickpea Pasta
Equipment
- Air Fryer Recipes optional
Ingredients
- 2 pints Cherry Tomatoes
- 5 Small Sweet Peppers or 1 Bell pepper
- 4 cups Cauliflower florets, chopped and washed
- ½ Yellow Onion cut into petals
- 5 cloves Garlic
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice or juice of half of lemon
- 2 tsp Basil
- 2 tsp Oregano
- ½ tsp Thyme
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Pepper
- ½ tsp Red Pepper Flakes (or less if you’re sensitive to spice)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil optional
- Garnish with Parmesan optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven or air fryer on the roast setting to 400° F.
- Add two pints of cherry tomatoes to the roasting pan (or air fryer).
- Add the onion petals, garlic cloves, cauliflower florets, and peppers with tops removed.
- Add the seasonings on top of veggies: basil, oregano, thyme, and salt.
- Roast the veggies for about 15-25 minutes, or until tender.
- Cook the chickpea pasta.
- Add the roasted veggies to a food processor.
- Add lemon juice, black pepper, red pepper, and olive oil (optional)
- Puree them until the sauce has a nice mixture of smooth and chunky.
- Put the sauce over the chickpea pasta.
- If you like, add some grated parmesan. Enjoy!