Zaatar-Spiced Pasta with Chickpeas and Spinach
A fragrant, wholesome pasta dish featuring chickpeas, fresh spinach, and a bold zaatar spice blend. Quick, nutritious, and perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired weeknight meal.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
📝 Ingredients
Pasta & Vegetables
200g (7 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
1 cup cooked chickpeas (canned or boiled)
2 cups fresh spinach
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Zaatar Sauce
2 tbsp zaatar spice blend
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
2–3 tbsp reserved pasta cooking water
Optional Garnish
2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or walnuts
Fresh parsley or mint
Grated parmesan or vegan cheese (optional)
🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
1. Boil pasta according to package instructions in salted water.
2. Reserve 2–3 tbsp of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion until soft (3–4 minutes).
3. Add garlic → sauté 30 seconds.
4. Add chickpeas → cook 3–4 minutes.
5. Add spinach → cook until wilted. Season with salt & pepper.
3. Combine Pasta & Zaatar
1. Add drained pasta to the pan with vegetables.
2. Stir in zaatar, olive oil, and lemon juice.
3. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light sauce.
4. Toss well to coat everything evenly
4. Serve
Plate pasta and top with toasted nuts, fresh herbs, and optional cheese.
Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges for brightness.
💡 Notes & Tips
Zaatar: Adjust quantity based on taste; it provides earthy, tangy flavor.
Chickpeas: Use roasted chickpeas for extra crunch.
Spinach: Baby spinach is soft and wilts quickly; regular spinach may need slightly longer.
Protein variation: Add grilled chicken, halloumi, or tofu for more protein.
📌 frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Q: Can I make this vegan?
Yes — skip the parmesan or use vegan cheese.
Q: Can I prepare in advance?
Yes — store separately from dressing and reheat gently. Add fresh spinach before serving for freshness.
Q: Can I use other greens?
Yes — kale, Swiss chard, or arugula work well.
🔥 Nutrition information
Calories: 350–380
Protein: 14g
Carbs: 50g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 8g