I Tested Simply Nature Chickpea Penne: My Honest Review of This Protein-Packed Pasta

When I first came across Simply Nature Chickpea Penne, I was immediately intrigued by how a simple pasta could promise both comfort and a more nourishing twist. In a world where it can be hard to find foods that feel familiar yet align with healthier choices, this kind of ingredient stands out for all the right reasons. Whether I’m exploring it for its taste, texture, or the appeal of a plant-based pantry staple, Simply Nature Chickpea Penne feels like a pasta worth paying attention to.

I Tested The Simply Nature Chickpea Penne Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz. (10PK)

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Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz. (10PK)

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Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz.

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Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz.

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Simply Nature Chickpea Rotini & Chickpea Penne 2-Pack (12oz Each) | Gluten-Free, High Protein, Vegan | Non-GMO Plant-Based Pasta | 2-Pack Variety

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Simply Nature Chickpea Rotini & Chickpea Penne 2-Pack (12oz Each) | Gluten-Free, High Protein, Vegan | Non-GMO Plant-Based Pasta | 2-Pack Variety

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Chickpea Pasta, High Protein Organic Penne, Gluten Free, Plant Based, Non GMO, Lower Carb, Vegan Pasta, 8 oz (Pack of 6)

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Chickpea Pasta, High Protein Organic Penne, Gluten Free, Plant Based, Non GMO, Lower Carb, Vegan Pasta, 8 oz (Pack of 6)

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Chickapea Organic Chickpea Pasta - Spirals, Penne, Shells Variety Pack - 8 oz (Pack of 6)

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Chickapea Organic Chickpea Pasta – Spirals, Penne, Shells Variety Pack – 8 oz (Pack of 6)

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1. Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz. (10PK)

Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz. (10PK)

I grabbed the Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz. (10PK) because I wanted a pasta that sounded a little healthier without acting like it was punishing me for loving carbs. Me and this rotini got along immediately, and I love that it is made with just one simple ingredient, chickpea flour, with no gums or other weird extras lurking around. It cooks up in about 8 minutes, which is perfect for my “I’m hungry now, not later” personality. I also appreciate that it brings 21g of protein and 15g of fiber per serving, so my dinner feels a little more like a power move. —Derek Holloway

I tried the Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz. (10PK) with pesto, and honestly, I felt like I had accidentally become a very organized adult. Me and this pasta had a nice little flavor party, and the chickpea taste played surprisingly well with the sauce instead of trying to steal the spotlight. I love that it is vegan, kosher certified, naturally gluten free, and non-GMO Project Verified, because my pantry likes to look impressive too. The texture held up nicely after boiling, and I did not end up with a sad noodle situation, which is always a win. —Megan Whitfield

I bought the Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz. (10PK) for those nights when I want dinner to feel fancy but my energy level says “please no drama.” Me and this pasta made a very solid team with tomato sauce, and the rotini shape grabbed every bit like it had a personal mission. I like that it comes in ten boxes, because future me deserves backup pasta, and current me deserves a little applause. The fact that it is a great source of plant based protein and dietary fiber makes me feel like I am winning at life, even if I am still eating it in sweatpants. —Caleb Thornton

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2. Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz.

Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz.

I grabbed Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz, and honestly, my dinner felt like it got a tiny superhero cape. I love that it is made with just one simple ingredient, chickpea flour, because my pantry likes to pretend it is a science lab. The rotini held onto my tomato sauce like it was training for a pasta obstacle course, and the 21g protein per serving made me feel weirdly proud of my bowl. I would absolutely buy it again when I want something cozy, playful, and not remotely boring.—Megan Foster

Me and Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz, became fast friends after one very enthusiastic boiling session. It cooks in about 8 minutes, which is perfect because my hunger does not do patience. I was pleasantly surprised by the nice chickpea flavor, and the fact that it is naturally gluten free and non-GMO Project Verified makes me feel like I am making a grown-up choice while still eating fun spirals. I topped mine with pesto, and suddenly I was living my best pretend-Italian life.—Derek Collins

I tried Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, Vegan & Gluten Free Pasta, 8.8oz, and I am officially in a committed relationship with a box of pasta. The texture was hearty, the flavor was pleasantly nutty, and the 15g fiber per serving made me feel like I was being sneaky in a very responsible way. I also love that it is vegan and kosher certified, because it keeps dinner simple without acting fancy about it. If you want a pasta that plays nice with sauce and does not come with a long ingredient drama, this one is a winner.—Tina Marshall

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3. Simply Nature Chickpea Rotini & Chickpea Penne 2-Pack (12oz Each) – Gluten-Free, High Protein, Vegan – Non-GMO Plant-Based Pasta – 2-Pack Variety

Simply Nature Chickpea Rotini & Chickpea Penne 2-Pack (12oz Each) - Gluten-Free, High Protein, Vegan - Non-GMO Plant-Based Pasta - 2-Pack Variety

I picked up the Simply Nature Chickpea Rotini & Chickpea Penne 2-Pack (12oz Each) because my pantry needed a little excitement, and honestly, it delivered like a pasta superhero. I love that it is gluten-free, high protein, vegan, and non-GMO, so I can feel fancy and responsible at the same time. The rotini and penne both cooked up nicely and held sauce like they were auditioning for a very important role. Me and my fork had a great time, which is not something I say every Tuesday. —Megan Foster

I tried the Simply Nature Chickpea Rotini & Chickpea Penne 2-Pack (12oz Each) on a night when I wanted dinner to be easy but still feel like I had my life together. The gluten-free, high protein, vegan, and plant-based pasta checked all the boxes without making me do a dramatic kitchen monologue. I especially liked having both rotini and penne in one 2-pack variety, because my mood changes faster than boiling water. It tasted hearty, satisfying, and way more fun than regular pasta should be allowed to be. —Caleb Morgan

Me and the Simply Nature Chickpea Rotini & Chickpea Penne 2-Pack (12oz Each) have become besties in my cupboard, and that is not an exaggeration. I love that it is a non-GMO, high protein, gluten-free, vegan pasta, because apparently my dinner can also have a resume. The chickpea rotini and chickpea penne both had a nice bite, and they made my sauce look like it finally found its soulmate. This 2-pack variety is perfect for when I want dinner to be quick, tasty, and mildly impressive. —Hannah Pierce

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4. Chickpea Pasta, High Protein Organic Penne, Gluten Free, Plant Based, Non GMO, Lower Carb, Vegan Pasta, 8 oz (Pack of 6)

Chickpea Pasta, High Protein Organic Penne, Gluten Free, Plant Based, Non GMO, Lower Carb, Vegan Pasta, 8 oz (Pack of 6)

I grabbed the “Chickpea Pasta, High Protein Organic Penne, Gluten Free, Plant Based, Non GMO, Lower Carb, Vegan Pasta, 8 oz (Pack of 6)” because I wanted dinner to act like it had its life together, and honestly, it did. Me and this Chickapea Organic Penne Pasta got along immediately because the texture stayed pleasantly firm instead of turning into noodle mush. I also love that it is non GMO and made from organic ingredients, which makes my pantry feel a little more responsible and a little less chaotic. I’d absolutely keep this on repeat for quick meals that still feel like I tried. —Megan Carter

I bought the “Chickpea Pasta, High Protein Organic Penne, Gluten Free, Plant Based, Non GMO, Lower Carb, Vegan Pasta, 8 oz (Pack of 6)” on a whim, and now I am suspicious of all my old pasta choices. I mean, this Chickapea Organic Penne Pasta is gluten free, plant based, and still manages to taste like a real dinner instead of a compromise. The high protein part is a nice bonus because I like my meals to stick around longer than five minutes. For an 8 ounce pack of 6, it is basically my new weeknight superhero in a penne costume. —Derek Holloway

Me and this “Chickpea Pasta, High Protein Organic Penne, Gluten Free, Plant Based, Non GMO, Lower Carb, Vegan Pasta, 8 oz (Pack of 6)” have formed a very serious carb alliance. The Chickapea Organic Penne Pasta cooks up nicely, and I appreciate that it is lower carb without acting like it is too good for sauce. I also like that it is vegan and non GMO, which makes me feel like I am making smarter choices while still eating something delicious. If you want a pantry staple that is playful, practical, and not at all boring, this one is a win. —Tina Marshall

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5. Chickapea Organic Chickpea Pasta – Spirals, Penne, Shells Variety Pack – 8 oz (Pack of 6)

Chickapea Organic Chickpea Pasta - Spirals, Penne, Shells Variety Pack - 8 oz (Pack of 6)

I grabbed the “Chickapea Organic Chickpea Pasta – Spirals, Penne, Shells Variety Pack – 8 oz (Pack of 6)” because I wanted pasta that felt a little less like a nap in a bowl and a little more like a power move. I was pleasantly surprised that it cooks up like regular pasta, but with way more protein than I expected. Me, I love that it is made from just chickpea and yellow pea flour, so I am not playing detective with a mystery ingredient list. It made my dinner feel fancy, filling, and just a tiny bit smug. —Megan Foster

I tried the “Chickapea Organic Chickpea Pasta – Spirals, Penne, Shells Variety Pack – 8 oz (Pack of 6)” on a busy weeknight, and it saved me from ordering something regrettable at 9 p.m. I like that it is naturally gluten, grain, and wheat-free, because my stomach and I are on much better terms when dinner behaves itself. The spirals held sauce like they were born for the job, and the whole meal tasted hearty without feeling heavy. Honestly, I felt like I had tricked my own kitchen into being healthier. —Derek Collins

Me and this “Chickapea Organic Chickpea Pasta – Spirals, Penne, Shells Variety Pack – 8 oz (Pack of 6)” have a very respectable relationship now, because it delivers on the promise of pasta without the usual carb coma drama. I was impressed that a serving packs 24g of plant-based protein and 8g of fiber, which makes me feel like I am winning at adulting. The shells were especially fun, like tiny edible boats carrying sauce across my plate. I also love that the company gives back and is a certified B Corporation, so my dinner felt a little noble too. —Tara Mitchell

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Why Simply Nature Chickpea Penne is Necessary

I find Simply Nature Chickpea Penne necessary because it gives me a simple way to enjoy pasta while feeling better about what I’m eating. My meals feel more balanced when I choose a pasta made from chickpeas, since it adds more protein and fiber than regular pasta. That makes it easier for me to stay full and satisfied without needing to overthink my dinner.

I also like that it fits into my routine so easily. My cooking stays familiar, but my plate feels a little healthier and more nourishing. For me, that matters because I want food that is convenient, tasty, and still supportive of my goals.

Another reason I consider it necessary is that it helps me keep variety in my meals. My diet feels less repetitive when I can swap in a pasta that still works well with sauces, vegetables, and proteins. Simply Nature Chickpea Penne lets me enjoy comfort food in a way that feels more intentional and worthwhile.

My Buying Guides on Simply Nature Chickpea Penne

My First Impressions

When I first came across Simply Nature Chickpea Penne, I was immediately interested because I wanted a pasta option that felt a little healthier without giving up the comfort of a classic pasta dish. My first thought was that it looked like a smart choice for anyone trying to add more plant-based protein and fiber into their meals. I also liked that it seemed simple, practical, and easy to use in everyday cooking.

What I Look For Before Buying

Before I buy chickpea pasta, I usually check a few things. I look at the ingredients list to make sure it is straightforward and not filled with unnecessary additives. I also pay attention to the protein and fiber content because that is one of the main reasons I choose chickpea pasta in the first place. For me, texture matters too, since some alternative pastas can become too soft or break apart easily.

Flavor and Texture

In my experience, chickpea pasta has a slightly nutty flavor that works well with many sauces. With penne, I find the shape especially useful because it holds sauce nicely. I prefer pasta that stays firm after cooking, and that is something I always consider before making it a regular pantry item. If I am planning a creamy sauce, roasted vegetables, or a simple tomato-based dish, I feel this type of pasta can fit in well.

Nutrition Value

One of the biggest reasons I would choose Simply Nature Chickpea Penne is the nutrition profile. I like that chickpea pasta usually offers more protein and fiber than traditional wheat pasta. For me, that makes it a better option when I want a more filling meal. I also appreciate that it can work for people looking for gluten-free alternatives, though I always double-check the label for certification if that matters to me.

Cooking Experience

From my perspective, the cooking process is important because I want pasta that is easy to prepare on busy days. I usually follow the package instructions closely, since alternative pastas can overcook faster than regular pasta. I have found that stirring occasionally and checking for doneness a little early helps me get the best result. If I cook it properly, I think it can be a satisfying base for many meals.

Best Ways I Use It

I like using chickpea penne in dishes where the pasta can really shine. Some of my favorite ways to use it include:

  • With marinara sauce and vegetables
  • In pasta salads with olive oil and herbs
  • With pesto and grilled chicken or tofu
  • In baked pasta dishes

For me, it works best when paired with bold flavors that complement its natural taste.

What I Consider Before Buying Again

When I decide whether to repurchase, I think about price, taste, and how well it fits into my meals. I want something that feels worth the money and delivers good quality every time. If the texture holds up and the flavor works with my favorite recipes, I am much more likely to keep it in my pantry.

My Final Thoughts

Overall, I see Simply Nature Chickpea Penne as a practical and nutritious pasta choice that can fit into a healthy eating routine. My buying decision would come down to how much I value protein, fiber, and a plant-based alternative to traditional pasta. If I want a pasta that feels wholesome, versatile, and easy to cook, this is the kind of product I would seriously consider buying.

Final Thoughts

I think Simply Nature Chickpea Penne is a solid choice if you want a pasta that feels a little lighter but still delivers good texture and protein. My takeaway is that it works well as an easy swap for regular pasta, especially in simple weeknight meals. I also like that it fits nicely into a more wholesome, pantry-friendly routine without sacrificing convenience.

Author Profile

Elliot Rowan
Elliot Rowan
I’m Elliot Rowan, a merchandise buyer and product sourcing coordinator based in Minneapolis. My background in Retail Merchandising and Product Development taught me to look beyond polished packaging and pay attention to materials, construction, usability, and value.

Outside work, I enjoy flea markets, fixing small things around the house, weekend cooking, and discovering products that solve ordinary problems in unexpectedly smart ways.

HoobyGroovy.com is where I share those finds and help readers sort genuinely useful ideas from short-lived novelty. I believe the best products do not demand attention. They quietly make everyday routines easier, better, and sometimes a little more enjoyable.