Acini de pepe

Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup acini de pepe (small pasta)
- 4 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (vegan if preferred)
- 5–6 fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Utensils
- Dutch oven or large saucepan with lid
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and chopping board
- Grater
Information
Cost: $
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Yield: 3 servings (300 g each)
Preparation Method
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add acini de pepe and toast 30–60 seconds, stirring frequently.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes until it darkens in color.
- Add Italian seasoning and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer on medium-low heat 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until pasta is al dente and liquid mostly absorbed.
- Remove from heat. Stir in chickpeas, fresh basil, and parmesan.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or parmesan if desired.