Easiest Tomato Basil Penne with Spicy Italian Chickpeas
The ultimate comfort food, this Easiest Tomato Basil Penne with Spicy Italian Chickpeas is bursting with flavor and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Hearty chickpeas, fresh tomatoes, and creamy burrata create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Make it tonight!
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Saucepan
- Large Pot
Ingredients
- 1 can 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
- to taste kosher salt and pepper
- 2 cans (28 ounces) San Marzano tomatoes
- 1/2 cup basil pesto homemade or store bought
- 1 pound penne
- 8 ounces burrata cheese torn
- to taste basil for serving
Instructions
- Begin by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chickpeas, olive oil, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, onion powder, and a pinch of kosher salt. Toss everything well to evenly combine. Cook, stirring often, until the chickpeas are warmed through and become golden and crisp, about five minutes. Remove the chickpeas from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
- In the same pot, add the San Marzano tomatoes—crush them by hand as you add them to release their juices. Follow this by adding the basil pesto along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cook while stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly, around ten to fifteen minutes.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it in the red sauce, ensuring every piece is coated in that delicious sauce.
- To serve, divide the pasta among bowls. Top with the crispy chickpeas and tear the burrata cheese over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy the warmth and flavors that this meal brings!
Notes
If you happen to have any leftovers, they make for great lunch the next day. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and you’ll find it tastes even better the next day. It’s a perfect meal prep option!