Simple 7-Ingredient Recipe

Of course! Here is a simple, delicious recipe using common pantry staples.

Pantry Perfection Pasta

This dish is a celebration of simplicity. The humble can of chickpeas is transformed into a crispy, savory topping, while a silky, garlic-infused oil coats the pasta for a meal that feels luxurious but is incredibly easy to make.

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

1. 8 oz (225g) pasta (like spaghetti, linguine, or any shape you have)
2. 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3. 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
4. 1/4 cup olive oil
5. 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
6. Salt, to taste
7. Black pepper, freshly cracked, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water.
2. Crisp the Chickpeas: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the drained chickpeas and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until they begin to turn golden and crisp.
3. Infuse the Oil: Push the chickpeas to the side of the skillet. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the center of the oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Combine Everything: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss vigorously to coat every strand in the garlic-chili oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water (a few tablespoons at a time) to help create a light sauce that clings to the pasta.
5. Season and Serve: Season generously with black pepper and more salt if needed. Toss one more time and serve immediately, topped with the crispy chickpeas.

Chef's Note: For a fresh finish, if you happen to have a lemon, a squeeze of juice at the end is fantastic. If you have parsley, a sprinkle on top adds color. But it's perfectly delicious without!