Chickpea Broccoli Alfredo Skillet

If you’re craving something creamy, comforting, and packed with wholesome goodness, this Chickpea Broccoli Alfredo Skillet is your new go-to dish. Easy to whip up and filled with vibrant flavors, this recipe combines tender chickpeas, fresh broccoli, and a luscious Alfredo sauce that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a cozy meal that feels indulgent without the guilt.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners stress-free and delicious.
• Healthy ingredients: Chickpeas and broccoli add protein, fiber, and vitamins to keep you full and energized.
• Creamy comfort: The dairy-free Alfredo sauce is silky and rich, delivering all the flavor without heaviness.
• One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet, perfect for busy cooks.
• Versatile meal: Easily adaptable to suit your taste buds or dietary needs by swapping veggies or adding spices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create this Chickpea Broccoli Alfredo Skillet. Each component brings a unique texture or flavor that complements the others perfectly.

• Chickpeas: Canned or cooked chickpeas provide creamy texture and protein while soaking up the sauce beautifully.
• Broccoli: Fresh florets add vibrant color and a satisfying crunch, balancing the creamy elements.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth and warmth.
• Cashews: Soaked cashews blend into a silky, dairy-free Alfredo sauce base rich in healthy fats.
• Plant-based milk: Unsweetened almond or oat milk keeps the sauce smooth yet light.
• Nutritional yeast: Adds a cheesy, nutty flavor that’s crucial for that authentic Alfredo taste without dairy.
• Lemon juice: A splash of lemon brightens and balances the richness of the sauce.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and bringing everything together with subtle richness.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes bring out boldness and enhance the dish’s layers.
• Fresh herbs: Parsley or basil for garnish add freshness and a pop of color.

Variations for Chickpea Broccoli Alfredo Skillet

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Feel free to tailor it based on what you have in the fridge or your flavor preferences.

• Swap the vegetables: Use cauliflower, asparagus, or zucchini instead of broccoli for a different twist.
• Add protein: Toss in cooked tofu, tempeh, or grilled chicken to boost protein even more.
• Spice it up: Include smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or chili flakes to ramp up flavor on the heat scale.
• Make it grain bowl style: Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or pasta for a more filling meal.
• Use dairy cream: For a classic option, swap the cashew cream with heavy cream or half-and-half for richer sauce.

How to Make Chickpea Broccoli Alfredo Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the cashew cream sauce

Start by soaking 1 cup of raw cashews in warm water for at least 15 minutes, then drain. Blend the soaked cashews with 1 cup of unsweetened plant-based milk, 1/4 cup nutritional yeast, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and salt to taste until silky smooth. This creamy sauce is the heart of your Alfredo.

Step 2: Sauté the broccoli and garlic

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 5 minutes until vibrant and slightly tender. Then stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add chickpeas and sauce to the skillet

Drain and rinse 1 can of chickpeas, then add them to the skillet. Pour the prepared cashew cream sauce over the veggies and chickpeas. Stir gently to coat everything evenly and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until warmed through and thickened slightly.

Step 4: Season and finish

Season with freshly ground black pepper, a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat, and adjust salt if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving for a fresh pop of green.

Pro Tips for Making Chickpea Broccoli Alfredo Skillet

• Soak cashews well: Ensure your cashews are soaked properly for a smooth, creamy sauce without graininess.
• Don’t overcook broccoli: Keep the broccoli tender-crisp to retain its beautiful color and nutrition.
• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers the best flavor impact compared to powder.
• Adjust sauce consistency: Add more plant-based milk if your sauce feels too thick or more nutritional yeast for cheesiness.
• Warm the sauce gently: Avoid boiling after adding the sauce to keep the texture silky and prevent curdling.

How to Serve Chickpea Broccoli Alfredo Skillet

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or chives brings vibrant color and fresh herbal notes that lift the dish.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted potatoes for a full, well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate the skillet meal over cooked pasta, toasted naan, or cooked grains for a creative twist, perfect for dinner parties or family meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Chickpea Broccoli Alfredo Skillet in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well! Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of plant-based milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use canned broccoli instead of fresh?

Fresh broccoli is preferred for texture and flavor, but in a pinch, you can use canned broccoli—just reduce cooking time since it’s already soft.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you avoid serving it with pasta or bread containing gluten, this dish itself is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this without cashews?

You can substitute cashews with sunflower seeds or silken tofu, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add more red pepper flakes or chili powder if you like some heat.

What protein does chickpeas provide?

Chickpeas are a plant-based protein source rich in fiber and essential nutrients, helping to make this skillet filling and nutritious.

Final Thoughts

This Chickpea Broccoli Alfredo Skillet combines creamy indulgence with wholesome ingredients in the easiest way possible. It’s a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to for its comfort, health benefits, and versatility. Give it a try tonight—you’re going to love how simple and satisfying it is!

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