How to Cook Pasta and Garbanzo Beans

Pasta and beans -- an irresistible combination. Try this tomato-less recipe with garbanzo beans or chickpeas, as they are sometimes called. The garlic really adds to the mix.

Things You'll Need

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas or garbanzo beans, with 1/2 cup liquid
• 1/2 lb pasta (penne, ziti, rotini or your choice)
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1/2 cup coarse fresh bread crumbs
• Chopped parsley
• 1/4 lb cooked chorizo, pork or lamb sausage or kielbasa (optional)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Large pot
• Skillet

Instructions

How to Cook Pasta With Garbanzo Beans

1. Boil water with a dash of salt in the large pot. Cook pasta until almost tender.

2. Meanwhile, add 1 tbsp olive oil to heated skillet. On medium heat, add meat if using, and stir until browned. Remove and set aside.

3. Add garlic. Cook lightly for a minute, stirring. Then add bread crumbs, mixing until golden, about 10-15 minutes.

4. Add 1 tbsp more olive oil. Mix in chickpeas as well as chickpea liquid.

5. Toss in pasta, as well as sausage if using. Continue to stir and cook over medium heat until pasta is tender. Salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with chopped parsley and grated parmesan, if desired.

Tips & Warnings

• Canned beans will do, but starting with dry beans and boiling them yourself always tastes better.