Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces of pasta (your choice); 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 1/2 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta on busy weeknights when I crave something nourishing yet effortless. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon combined with the creaminess of chickpeas creates a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and is packed with protein, making it perfect for a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. I often serve it with a side salad to balance the richness, and it has quickly become a family favorite!

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:10:08.219Z

Making this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta was an experiment that turned into a delightful weekly ritual in my kitchen. I wanted a dish that wouldn’t take long to prepare but would deliver maximum flavor, so combining chickpeas with a creamy, lemon-infused sauce was a perfect choice. The sauce comes together seamlessly, and I love how the pasta absorbs all those citrusy notes.

One specific tip I discovered is to save a bit of the pasta cooking water when draining. Adding this starchy water to the sauce helps create a smooth consistency and ensures that every noodle is enveloped in that dreamy creaminess. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright lemon flavor that wakes up your taste buds
Creamy texture from chickpeas that feels indulgent
Quick and easy — perfect for busy nights

      

Mastering the Creaminess

The key to achieving a luscious, creamy texture in this dish lies in the chickpeas. When sautéed with garlic and broth, they become softer and can be lightly mashed to create an appealing consistency. I recommend using a potato masher or the back of a fork to mash a portion of the chickpeas—this will blend them with the sauce beautifully and enhance the overall dish without adding too much heaviness.

Choosing the right cream is also vital for that indulgent feel. Heavy cream offers a rich mouthfeel, but if you're aiming for a lighter or dairy-free option, coconut cream works wonders. It not only provides that desired creaminess but also infuses a subtle sweetness that complements the zingy lemon. Just ensure you’re using full-fat coconut cream for the best results.

Perfect Timing and Serving Suggestions

Timing is everything in this recipe to keep the pasta perfectly al dente while allowing the sauce to develop its flavorful character. Begin boiling the water when you start cooking your garlic, as this ensures both elements are ready around the same time. Keep an eye on your pasta; undercooking it by a minute allows it to soak up the sauce without becoming mushy.

As for serving, this pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the creamy sauce. Consider a bright arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a spinach salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers. The freshness will offset the creaminess of the dish, making for a well-rounded meal that feels nourishing and satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful experience:

Main Ingredients

8 ounces of pasta (your choice)
1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon (zest and juice)
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are prepared and within reach before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Add Chickpeas and Broth

Stir in the chickpeas and vegetable broth, cooking until heated through. Use a wooden spoon to mash a few chickpeas for extra creaminess.

Incorporate Cream and Lemon

Reduce the heat, then add the heavy cream or coconut cream, lemon juice, and zest. Stir well to combine and season with salt and pepper.

Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.

Enjoy your delicious pasta creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for some heat, or tossing in some spinach for more nutrition. You can also substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative to keep the dish plant-based.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize this dish based on your pantry staples. Instead of chickpeas, you can use white beans or even lentils for a different yet delightful flavor profile. Just be mindful of the cooking times; lentils may require a bit more liquid and longer simmering to achieve the right tenderness.

For a boost of greens, toss in some sautéed spinach or kale when you add the chickpeas. This not only adds a pop of color but also increases the nutrient density of the dish. If you prefer a more textured finish, try incorporating roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor and visual appeal.

Storage and Reheating

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta makes excellent leftovers! Store any uneaten pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so you might want to reserve a splash of broth or cream to add when reheating.

To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning. You can add a bit of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. For quick reheating, a microwave works too; just cover the bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut-based cream, and ensure the pasta is egg-free.

→ What type of pasta works best?

You can use any pasta you like, but I recommend penne or fusilli for better sauce adherence.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.

→ Can I freeze the creamy pasta?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze portions in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw and reheat carefully to avoid separating the cream.