Pasta & Garbanzo Beans With Roasted Vegetable
Description
This vibrant dish combines earthy roasted fennel and sweet bell peppers with protein-rich garbanzo beans and pasta. The vegetables are broiled until slightly charred, adding a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the bright acidity of lemon juice and toasted fennel seeds. Its a satisfying, wholesome meal that feels both rustic and refined. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a light summer dinner, this recipe highlights simple ingredients transformed by high heat. The addition of fresh basil and a touch of crushed red pepper provides a fragrant finish with a gentle kick. Serve it family-style for a communal, comforting meal that relies on fresh flavors rather than heavy sauces.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat the broiler to high.
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Dice the bell peppers and fennel bulbs, reserving some of the fennel fronds for garnish.
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In a large bowl, toss the diced peppers, fennel, reserved fennel fronds, diced tomatoes, and half of the fresh basil.
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Spread the vegetable mixture evenly on a large baking sheet or broiler pan. Generously spray with cooking spray.
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Broil the vegetables until they soften and blacken slightly, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
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While vegetables roast, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a small dry skillet, toast the fennel seeds over medium heat until they darken slightly and become fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Let cool slightly.
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In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked garbanzo beans, crushed red pepper, lemon juice (or balsamic vinegar), and toasted fennel seeds.
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Add the hot roasted vegetables and cooked pasta to the bean mixture.
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Toss everything together well to combine.
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Stir in the grated cheese and remaining fresh basil.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Garnish with the reserved minced fennel leaves and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 38.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.4g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 5.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 8.8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 3.1g13%
- Sugars 5.2g
- Protein 1.2g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld nicely overnight.
Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. You can substitute the garbanzo beans with cannellini beans if preferred.
Variations: Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving for added richness. Swap the bell peppers for zucchini or eggplant for seasonal variety.
Tip: Toasting the fennel seeds releases essential oils that enhance the earthy flavor of the dish significantly. Do not skip this step if possible.