Chickpea And Pasta Soup

Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large heavy pan. Add the chopped vegetables and cook over a low heat, stirring frequently for 5-7 minutes softened.
- Add the chickpeas and cannellini beans, stir well to mix, then cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and water. Cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes.
- Add 2 cups (500ml) of the stock, the rosemary sprig and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour.
- Pour in the remaining stock, add the pasta and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 7-8 minutes, or according to the instructions on the packet, until the pasta is al dente. Remove the rosemary sprig.
- To serve: Serve the soup sprinkled with rosemary leaves and Parmesan shavings.
Information
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1Tbs (15ml) olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stick, finely chopped
- 1 tin (410g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ½ tin (200g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tin (410g) diced tomatoes, strained
- ½ cup (125ml) water
- 6¼ cups (1.560 l) Vegetable / Chicken Stock
- 1 fresh rosemary sprig, extra to garnish
- 2 cups shell pasta (conchiglie)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Shavings of Parmesan cheese, to serve
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large heavy pan. Add the chopped vegetables and cook over a low heat, stirring frequently for 5-7 minutes softened.
- Add the chickpeas and cannellini beans, stir well to mix, then cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and water. Cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes.
- Add 2 cups (500ml) of the stock, the rosemary sprig and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour.
- Pour in the remaining stock, add the pasta and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 7-8 minutes, or according to the instructions on the packet, until the pasta is al dente. Remove the rosemary sprig.
- To serve: Serve the soup sprinkled with rosemary leaves and Parmesan shavings.
Notes
- 2 different types of beans ensure a protein-packed light meal option.
- Legumes are low GI, rich in fibre, rich in protein and minerals, low in fat, filling, versatile and cheap! As such they form a vital part of any eating plan designed for weight loss, diabetes, prediabetes and prevention of heart disease, to name but a few conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these recipes designed for everyday, practical cooking?
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Every recipe is structured around core clinical nutrition principles, prioritizing clean proteins, healthy fats, and complex, fiber-rich carbohydrates. By avoiding highly refined sugars and heavily processed ingredients, these meals provide a slow, controlled release of glucose into your bloodstream. This prevents the sharp insulin spikes and subsequent “sugar crashes” that cause afternoon fatigue and brain fog.
Are your recipes strictly aligned with Low-GI principles?
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Can I easily adapt these recipes for plant-based, vegan, or specific dietary needs?
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How can I combine these recipes with the Back To Basics Meal Replacement Shakes?
Our whole-food recipes are designed to complement your structured lifestyle plan seamlessly. A highly effective strategy for busy professionals or weight management goals is to substitute one or two on-the-go meals with our premium Low-GI Gold Range Supa Shakes, and then enjoy one of our beautifully balanced, whole-food recipes for your main sit-down meal. This gives you the perfect blend of absolute convenience and fresh culinary variety.
Can these recipes assist me with sustainable weight management?
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