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Lemon Herb Produce-First Chickpea Pasta Primavera with Quick-Pickled Onion, an original WorkLife Meal Plan recipe

Vegetarian

Lemon Herb Produce-First Chickpea Pasta Primavera with Quick-Pickled Onion

Bright citrus and garden herbs. This recipe coats protein-rich chickpea pasta and colorful vegetables in a silky pantry sauce, structured around vegetables while keeping the meal satisfying, with a bright, tangy counterpoint. It is designed for dependable prep, familiar groceries, and a calm family dinner.

Plant-forwardHigh fiber30 minutesBright flavor
Prep15 min
Cook19 min
Serves4
Total34 min
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What you’ll need

Ingredients

  • 12 oz chickpea pasta
  • 1 zucchini, cut into half-moons
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
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Make it happen

Directions

  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.

  2. 2

    Warm olive oil in a large skillet. Cook zucchini and bell pepper for 5 minutes, then add tomatoes.

  3. 3

    Stir in 1 lemon, zested and juiced and 2 tsp dried oregano and reserved pasta water. Simmer for 2 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add pasta and spinach, toss until glossy and wilted, then add lemon juice and parsley and serve immediately.

  5. 5

    Toss the onion with vinegar and a pinch of salt; let it stand while the meal cooks, then spoon over the top.

Estimated per serving

Nutrition at a glance

Estimates are provided for planning and are not medical advice.

515calories22gprotein14gfiber