All Recipes

Pasta with Chickpeas and Za’atar

Print

About recipe

Za’atar is a spice blend widely used in the Middle East. There are innumerable za’atar recipes, but in general, it is a combination of dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, cumin and sesame seeds. It packs a huge punch of warm, floral flavors and really makes this dish sing. 

Ingredients (serves 4)

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil 
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped 
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed 
  • 2 teaspoons cumin 
  • 1 teaspoon thyme 4-7 anchovies (optional) 
  • 1 lemon: half of lemon zested, and juice of lemon 
  • 1 15 ounce can of chickpeas 
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar 
  • 1 3/4 cups of low sodium chicken stock 
  • 1/2 box pasta of choice 
  • 2 cups spinach, chipped 
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons za’atar or oregano 

Preparation

  1. Cook pasta per box instructions. 
  2. Heat the olive oil over high heat in a large sauté pan. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, thyme, anchovies (if you are using them) lemon zest, a pinch of salt and a pinch of black pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onions become golden. 
  3. Reduce heat to medium high and stir in the chickpeas and brown sugar. Cook for an additional 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. 
  4. Add the chicken stock and lemon juice to the pan and simmer for 6 minutes, until the sauce has reduced slightly. 
  5. Add the spinach and cooked pasta. Stir to combine. 
  6. Sprinkle with za’atar and enjoy! 

Community Servings has achieved high ratings by GuideStar & Charity Navigation and is an accredited FIMC Member.

Community Servings
179 Amory Street
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Phone: 617.522.7777
Fax: 617.522.7770
Copyright © 2025 All Rights Reserved Community Servings.
×
Subscribe for news
×

Give Back. Get Pie.

Now through 11/22, your purchase of a locally baked apple, pecan, or pumpkin Thanksgiving pie from Community Servings provides a week of meals for a neighbor in need. Order today to make a difference!

Learn more