Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance! This Parmesan Fusilli isn't just another pasta dish - it's a flavor-packed, nutritious masterpiece that combines crispy roasted chickpeas, golden-edged vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta in a symphony of textures and tastes. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who loves delicious meals that come together in under 40 minutes, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fusilli pasta
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Drain and thoroughly pat dry the chickpeas using paper towels. This helps them achieve maximum crispiness during roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the chickpeas, broccoli florets, and cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the vegetable and chickpea mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded to promote even roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chickpeas are crispy and the vegetables have golden brown edges.
- While vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help create a smooth sauce.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot and add the roasted chickpeas, broccoli, and cauliflower. Toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta mixture. If the dish seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to create a light, creamy coating.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, with extra Parmesan cheese for garnishing.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of crispy chickpeas! Pat them completely dry before roasting to ensure maximum crunchiness.
- Don't overcrowd your baking sheet - give those vegetables and chickpeas room to breathe. This ensures they roast, not steam.
- Reserve your pasta water! That starchy liquid is liquid gold for creating a silky, clingy sauce that helps the Parmesan cheese coat every single noodle.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or garlic powder to your roasting vegetables.
- Want to make this dish even more protein-packed? Try adding some grilled chicken or tofu to the mix.
- Freshly grated Parmesan makes a world of difference compared to pre-packaged cheese - invest in a good block and grate it yourself!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
