One Pot Pasta Ceci e Zucchine

Ingredients

• 2 cup zucchini (diced)
• 0.5 cup onion (cut into small cubes)
• 175 g small pasta (such as ditalini or similar small shape)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (divided for sauteing and finishing)
• 1.5 cup chickpeas (cooked or canned and drained)
• salt (to taste)
• black pepper (to taste)
• water (enough to cover ingredients, plus extra warm water if needed)
• 0.25 cup parmigiano cheese (grated)
• lemon zest (from one lemon)
• fresh basil (torn or chopped for finishing)

Steps

1. 1

   Dice two cups of zucchini and cut half a cup of onions into small cubes. Measure out 175 grams of small pasta.

2. 2

   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and saute until translucent and lightly golden.

3. 3

   Add the diced zucchini and 1.5 cups of chickpeas to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. 4

   Pour in enough water to cover the vegetables and let everything cook together for about 5 minutes.

5. 5

   Remove a portion of the cooked zucchini and chickpeas from the pot and place them in a blender or food processor.

6. 6

   Blend the removed vegetables until smooth, then pour the puree back into the pot to create a creamy consistency.

7. 7

   Bring the mixture back to a boil and add the 175 grams of small pasta directly into the pot.

8. 8

   Cook the pasta in the vegetable mixture, stirring frequently. If the liquid evaporates and the pasta starts to dry out before it is fully cooked, add more warm water as needed.

9. 9

   Once the pasta is al dente, remove the pot from the heat.

10. 10

    Stir in a drizzle of olive oil, grated parmigiano cheese, lemon zest, and fresh basil. Give everything one final stir and serve immediately.

Notes

The secret to the creaminess is blending a portion of the chickpeas and zucchini. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step, but it is highly recommended for the authentic feel. Always use warm water when adding more to the pot to maintain the cooking temperature.

Nutrition per serving

• one-pot
• pasta
• vegetarian
• Italian
• easy dinner
• chickpeas
• zucchini
• healthy