Picture this: a cozy kitchen filled with the inviting scent of garlic and fresh rosemary gently mingling with the deep, tangy notes of tomato paste simmering on the stove. This Pasta e Ceci (Chickpea Pasta Soup) Recipe is the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort, promising a bowl full of hearty, nourishing goodness that satisfies like a loving hug.

Why You’ll Love This Pasta e Ceci (Chickpea Pasta Soup) Recipe

Rich and Comforting Flavor: The blend of tender chickpeas, savory broth, and aromatic rosemary combines for a soup bursting with traditional Italian soul.
Simple Ingredients: This recipe calls for everyday pantry essentials like olive oil, garlic, tomato paste, and ditalini pasta—easy to keep on hand and quick to assemble.

Perfect for Weeknights: With only around 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this hearty soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and wholesome greens, this soup is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
Customizable Comfort: Whether you prefer kale, escarole, or other hearty greens, and whether you top it with Pecorino Romano or not, this recipe adapts perfectly to your kitchen style.

Why This Pasta e Ceci (Chickpea Pasta Soup) Recipe Works

The magic behind this Pasta e Ceci (Chickpea Pasta Soup) Recipe lies in its simple yet effective stovetop method. Gently cooking garlic and fresh rosemary in olive oil at a low temperature unlocks a fragrant base that infuses the entire soup. Allowing the tomato paste to darken slightly caramelizes its flavors, lending a rich depth that’s anything but ordinary. Adding ditalini pasta and chickpeas together ensures that every spoonful is hearty and satisfying, while tossing in chopped greens just before finishing adds a fresh, vibrant texture that balances the savory broth beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

White ceramic bowl filled with a single serving of chickpea and ditalini pasta stew, showcasing tender chickpeas and small tube-shaped pasta in a rich, tomato-based broth with vibrant green kale leaves, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese that reveals the textured surface, close-up angled shot capturing the hearty, comforting layers and depth, set on a white marble background under natural light, styled as a warm, ready-to-eat portion; photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Let’s gather the stars of this delicious show: vibrant spices, pantry staples, and fresh greens that come together to create a soul-satisfying bowl.

1/4 cup olive oil: The silky foundation that carries the flavors beautifully.

4 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and pungent, it brings warmth to the soup.
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves (about 3 sprigs): Earthy and piney, rosemary adds an unforgettable fragrance.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle flicker of heat to awaken the palate.

3 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated, tangy, and rich, it deepens the broth’s complexity.
1 (32-ounce) carton low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups): The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more as needed: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.

2 (about 15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Tender, creamy, and packed with protein.
8 ounces dried ditalini pasta (about 1 2/3 cups): Tiny pasta shapes that soak up the broth perfectly.
4 cups coarsely chopped hearty greens, such as flat-leaf kale or escarole leaves (1 small bunch, optional): Adds earthiness and a pleasing bite.

Finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese, for serving (optional): A sharp, salty finish that elevates the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

Fresh rosemary: If you don’t have fresh, 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried rosemary can be used instead.
Chicken broth: Swap for vegetable broth to keep this recipe vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

Ditalini pasta: Small elbow macaroni or other short pasta works beautifully if you cannot find ditalini.
Greens: Feel free to use chard or spinach as alternatives to kale or escarole.

👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use good quality olive oil: It makes a noticeable difference in both flavor and aroma.

Don’t rush the tomato paste: Let it brown slightly to intensify taste and add color.
Stir regularly: This prevents the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.
Adjust salt gradually: Taste as you go, especially after adding broth and chickpeas.

Add greens last: Toss them in the final moments to keep their texture bright and fresh.

How to Make Pasta e Ceci (Chickpea Pasta Soup) Recipe

Step 1: Heat oil and aromatics

Begin by warming 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium-low heat until it shimmers invitingly. Into this, add 4 cloves of minced garlic, the finely chopped rosemary leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice. As the garlic softens and releases its heady aroma, your kitchen will start to feel incredibly welcoming. Cook for about one minute, stirring gently.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep the heat moderate to avoid burning the garlic—this keeps flavors bright and fresh.

Step 2: Cook tomato paste

Next comes the secret to that deep, rich base: stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste. Let it cook in the fragrant oil, stirring occasionally. Watch as it darkens to a beautiful brick-red and begins to stick lightly to the pot’s bottom, about 4 to 5 minutes—this step unlocks an intense, slightly sweet flavor your soup will thank you for.

💡 Pro Tip: This gentle caramelization makes a world of difference, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add broth and chickpeas

Pour in the 4 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, and add 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt. Bring this fragrant mixture to a lively boil over medium-high heat. Now stir in the drained and rinsed chickpeas along with the dried ditalini pasta. Stir frequently to keep the pasta from clumping, and cook until the pasta is tender but still has a little bite, about 10 minutes.

💡 Pro Tip: Constant stirring ensures every spoonful has perfectly cooked pasta.

Step 4: Add greens and season

In the final two minutes, toss in your coarsely chopped hearty greens like kale or escarole. They’ll wilt softly and add a gorgeous pop of color and fresh texture. Give it a taste, then adjust seasoning with more kosher salt if needed. Ladle this comforting soup into bowls and, if you like, sprinkle finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese on top for an irresistible finish.

💡 Pro Tip: Adding greens last keeps them vibrant and prevents overcooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from these common pitfalls:

Burning the garlic: Cooking garlic on too high heat can make it bitter rather than fragrant.
Skipping the tomato paste browning: Without this step, the soup lacks its signature depth of flavor.
Not stirring regularly during pasta cooking: Leads to mushy clumps or uneven cooking.

Adding greens too early: This makes them limp and dull instead of fresh and tender.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Salt levels can vary; always taste and tweak before serving.

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered this classic Pasta e Ceci (Chickpea Pasta Soup) Recipe, why not experiment with some delightful twists to keep things exciting?

Spicy Tomato Kick

Boost the heat by adding an extra 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or swap for a splash of hot sauce for a lively twist on tradition.

Greens Galore

Try swirling in other seasonal greens like Swiss chard or baby spinach to bring new flavors and textures to this versatile soup.

Smoky Paprika

Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the tomato paste to give an earthy, smoky depth that complements the chickpeas beautifully.

Hearty Italian Sausage Addition

For those craving a meaty option, try serving this alongside or with a serving of Zucchini Tomato Italian Sausage Soup: Hearty & Flavorful as a satisfying and flavorful combo.

Herbaceous Boost

Mix in fresh thyme or basil in the final minutes of cooking for a fragrant herb uplift perfect for spring and summer.

How to Serve Pasta e Ceci (Chickpea Pasta Soup) Recipe

Large white bowl filled with a hearty chickpea and ditalini pasta stew, featuring tender chickpeas, small tubular pasta, and vibrant kale leaves all simmered in a rich tomato-based broth, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish, photographed from an overhead angle on a white marble countertop with natural lighting, styled as a professional food magazine hero shot, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Brighten each bowl with a sprinkle of finely grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a few fresh rosemary leaves for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside crusty rustic bread or focaccia to soak up every flavorful spoonful. For a fresh contrast, a light arugula salad dressed with lemon juice balances the soup’s richness wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this vibrant Pasta e Ceci (Chickpea Pasta Soup) in elegant wide soup bowls or rustic ceramic mugs for a cozy, inviting feel. Swirl a hint of high-quality olive oil on top just before serving to add a glossy finish that catches the light beautifully. Pair with a glass of sparkling water infused with lemon for a refreshing complement.

Make Ahead and Storage

Make-Ahead Instructions

This soup holds up beautifully after it’s made! You can prepare it up to a day in advance and gently reheat before serving. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 4 days, perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, this soup freezes well. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to restore its lovely soup-like texture.

Expert Tips for Success

Use fresh rosemary: It imparts a brighter, more fragrant herbal note than dried.
Drain and rinse chickpeas well: This prevents any canned taste and keeps your broth clear.
Choose quality pasta: Good ditalini pasta holds its shape better and avoids mushiness.

Keep stirring: This prevents the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.
Warm broth before adding: Using room-temperature or warmed broth reduces overall cooking time.
Finish with cheese and oil: These add layers of flavor and richness to each bowl.

Adjust spices thoughtfully: Taste before serving and season to balance the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and skip the cheese topping, or use a plant-based alternative.

What can I use instead of ditalini pasta?

Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo work great as substitutes.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Not as is, since it contains wheat pasta. Use gluten-free pasta alternatives to make it gluten-free.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for easy meal prep.

What kind of greens work best?

Hearty greens like kale, escarole, or Swiss chard hold up well and add lovely texture and flavor.

How spicy is this soup?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that you can adjust to your taste or omit altogether.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Pasta e Ceci (Chickpea Pasta Soup) Recipe—the way tender chickpeas, fresh greens, and savory broth create a harmonious symphony of flavors that feels like a culinary hug. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weeknight meal or a satisfying vegetarian soup, this recipe delivers with simple ingredients and soul-warming taste. I hope this easy-to-follow recipe becomes a beloved staple in your home, ready to brighten chilly evenings or whenever you crave a bowl of genuine Italian comfort.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll also love these delicious recipes:

Creamy Vegetable Soup: Cozy & Delicious Comfort in Minutes – A luscious, creamy option packed with fresh vegetables and a cheesy twist, perfect for chilly nights.