A flavorful Italian soup made with chickpeas, vegetables, and pasta, enhanced with aromatic herbs and a touch of Parmesan.
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If using dried chickpeas, quick-soak them and cook until tender. If using canned chickpeas, strain them and reserve the liquid.
Finely chop the carrot, celery, and onion. Cook them in olive oil with crushed garlic until softened.
Stir in finely chopped fresh rosemary and a pinch of hot pepper.
Stir in tomato passata and chickpeas, plus a ladleful of water, broth, or chickpea cooking liquid.
If desired, purée 1/2 cup chickpeas with a splash of their cooking liquid and add to the soup.
Bring the soup to a boil, lower the heat, cover partially, and simmer until the tomato purée is partly cooked and the liquid has reduced.
Pour in water or broth to make 6 cups in total. Add a pinch of salt and the Parmesan rind.
Bring the liquid to a simmer, add ditalini pasta, and cook until the pasta is just tender.
Ladle the pasta e ceci into bowls, drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, and serve.
For more flavor, use homemade chickpeas instead of canned.
Adjust the amount of liquid for a thicker or thinner soup.
Save Parmesan rinds in the freezer for use in soups.
How can I make Pasta e Ceci with dried chickpeas instead of canned ones?
To make Pasta e Ceci with dried chickpeas, start by quick-soaking them. Rinse the dried chickpeas, then cover them with water and bring to a boil for about 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let them sit for an hour. After soaking, cook the chickpeas in fresh water until tender before adding them to the soup. This method enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.
What are some good substitutions for ditalini pasta in Pasta e Ceci?
If you don't have ditalini pasta on hand, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, orzo, or even broken spaghetti. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to ensure the pasta is cooked to your liking.
Is Pasta e Ceci suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, Pasta e Ceci can easily be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan rind and any cheese toppings. The dish is naturally rich in flavor from the chickpeas, vegetables, and herbs, making it a satisfying option for those following a vegan diet.
How should I store leftover Pasta e Ceci?
To store leftover Pasta e Ceci, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Just be aware that the pasta may become softer upon reheating, so you might want to cook the pasta separately and add it when serving.
What can I serve with Pasta e Ceci to make a complete meal?
Pasta e Ceci is a hearty dish on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a refreshing contrast. Crusty bread or garlic bread also complements the soup beautifully, allowing you to soak up the flavorful broth.
My name is Saramin is a culinary enthusiast with a flair for transforming everyday ingredients into delightful, flavour-packed dishes. Passionate about home cooking, Sarin specializes in creating easy-to-follow recipes inspired by global cuisines. With a focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients, they make cooking accessible and enjoyable for cooks at any level.
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