Pasta e Ceci – Italian Pasta & Chickpeas

This classic Italian dish has many proud family and regional variations and the strong opinions that go with them. There are debates about whether it should be served as a soup, stew or pasta. This recipe takes the pasta route, and it’s a good one! Begin by sautéing onion, garlic and rosemary in olive oil, then add tomatoes, red wine and protein-packed chickpeas, mashing a few to achieve a creamy texture. Add cooked orchiette pasta that cradles the sauce in its dome shape, and Sunday dinner is served! It’s said that a little ground black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil upon serving pops the flavor. Ciao.