MomSkoop
Let’s face it—regular pasta has some stiff competition these days. With the rise of gluten-free diets, plant-based eating, and the eternal quest to sneak more protein into every meal, chickpea pasta has quickly become the darling of the grocery aisle.
But not all chickpea pastas are created equal. Some taste surprisingly close to the real thing, while others… well, let’s just say they remind you of hummus in noodle form.
1. Banza Chickpea Pasta
There’s a reason Banza has become almost synonymous with chickpea pasta—it nailed the balance between healthy and tasty. The flavor is mild, nutty, and surprisingly close to traditional wheat pasta. Even picky eaters often can’t tell the difference once it’s covered in sauce.
The texture holds up beautifully, especially when cooked al dente. It doesn’t get gummy or fall apart, and it reheats decently, which is more than you can say for many gluten-free pastas. Just be careful not to overcook—it goes from firm to mushy faster than you’d expect.
Nutritionally, Banza is a powerhouse. With about 20 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber per serving, it makes for a filling meal that won’t leave you in a carb coma. Pair it with veggies and marinara, and you’ve got yourself a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but isn’t.
2. Chickapea
If you want your pasta to double as a nutrition boost, Chickapea makes a strong case. Made from just chickpeas and lentils, it’s organic, non-GMO, and proudly simple—no starches or fillers in sight. That purity comes through in the flavor, which leans a bit earthy but feels wholesome and satisfying.
Texture-wise, Chickapea can be slightly softer than other brands, so timing is everything. The penne holds up better than the spaghetti, which can clump if you’re not careful. A drizzle of olive oil after draining helps keep it from sticking, and the firm bite makes it perfect for baked dishes.
Each serving packs around 23 grams of protein and 11 grams of fiber—numbers that would make any dietitian smile. It’s the kind of pasta you can actually feel good about eating. Toss it with pesto or roasted vegetables for a meal that’s every bit as comforting as it is nourishing.
3. Explore Cuisine Chickpea Pasta
Explore Cuisine’s chickpea pasta is what happens when a brand takes health food seriously but still wants you to enjoy dinner. The flavor is more pronounced than others—think lightly roasted chickpeas with a toasty edge. It’s not trying to mimic traditional pasta completely, and that’s okay; it has its own character.
When it comes to texture, this one lands in the middle ground. It’s firm enough to hold sauce but soft enough to give that comforting pasta feel. It can get a bit chewy if undercooked, though, so make sure you hit that sweet spot on the timer. Bonus points for the fusilli shape—it grabs onto sauce like a pro.
On the nutrition front, Explore Cuisine offers about 13 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber per serving. It’s also certified organic and gluten-free. If you’re looking for a pasta that tastes healthy without tasting too healthy, this might be your sweet spot.
4. Barilla Protein+ Pasta (Chickpea Blend)
Barilla’s Protein+ line is for those who want a little health kick but aren’t quite ready to say goodbye to the familiar taste of wheat. The blend of chickpeas, lentils, and peas gives it a protein boost without sacrificing the comforting flavor that’s made Barilla a store pasta staple for decades.
In terms of texture, this one’s a crowd-pleaser. It cooks evenly, doesn’t clump, and has that classic pasta bite you expect from traditional Barilla. You’d be hard-pressed to tell it’s part legume. It’s also a great option for families—kids will eat it without question, which is practically a miracle.
Each serving packs about 10 grams of protein, so it’s not as protein-rich as pure chickpea pastas, but it’s an excellent compromise between taste and nutrition. If you want a transition pasta—one that feels familiar but offers better macros—this is your perfect starting point.