Pasta with Spiced Chickpeas and Whipped Feta

The idea for this dish started with a Greek whipped feta recipe we discovered.  The feta is creamed with olive oil and lemon juice, and typically used as a dip or appetizer.  Here we use whipped feta as the "sauce" for a pasta with spiced chickpeas.  The flavors are distinctly Mediterranean, but unusual at the same time.

Pasta with Spiced Chickpeas and Whipped Feta

Pasta with Spiced Chickpeas

3             cups        chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 1/2       cups        tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped
3                            garlic cloves, minced
2             Tbs         fresh mint, finely chopped
1/4          cup         olive oil
1              lb           dried rigatoni pasta
                              sea salt and black pepper

Whipped Feta


1/2           lb           feta, crumbled
                              juice of 1/2 lemon
3              Tbs        olive oil
1/2            tsp        black pepper

Procedure

1. Combine chickpeas, tomatoes, garlic, mint, olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.  Let sit at least one hour at room temperature.
2. Make Whipped Feta by combining all the ingredients in food processor until smooth and creamy.  Set aside.
3. Cook pasta.  Drain and toss with a small amount of olive oil.  Top with spiced chickpeas, then a big dollop of whipped feta.  Eat while pasta is still hot.

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