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Easy Chickpea Pasta Salad with Feta | Vegan, Healthy & Perfect for Summer

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Chickpea Pasta Salad is a vibrant, filling, and nutritious dish that combines the wholesome goodness of chickpeas and pasta with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas, this pasta salad makes for a perfect lunch, picnic dish, or side for a barbecue. The versatility of this salad allows for many customization options, making it a go-to recipe for healthy eating.

This simple yet satisfying dish is incredibly easy to make and perfect for meal prepping, as it holds up well in the fridge for a few days. If you’re looking for a plant-based, protein-packed pasta salad that is as delicious as it is nutritious, this Chickpea Pasta Salad is a must-try!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you start, gather these items:

  • A large pot for boiling pasta
  • A colander for draining the pasta
  • A cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables
  • A large mixing bowl for tossing the salad
  • A whisk or spoon for mixing the dressing
  • Measuring spoons for accurate ingredient measurements

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Chickpea Pasta Salad:

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (use your preferred type like fusilli, penne, or rotini)
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)

How to Make Easy Chickpea Pasta Salad?

Step 1: Boil the pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once the pasta is done, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and chop the red onion, red bell pepper, and black olives. Set them aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder and oregano. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed, ensuring it has a good balance of tanginess and flavor.

Step 4: Combine the pasta and chickpeas

Once the pasta is cool, add it to the large mixing bowl with the chopped vegetables. Add the chickpeas to the bowl as well.

Step 5: Toss and serve

Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything together until the pasta, chickpeas, and veggies are evenly coated in the dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Variations

  • Add protein: To make the salad even heartier, add grilled chicken, tofu, or vegan sausage.
  • Add roasted vegetables: Roasted zucchini, eggplant, or sweet potatoes will add more flavor and texture.
  • Spicy kick: Add a bit of chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
  • Herbs: You can use basil, dill, or thyme instead of parsley for a different fresh flavor.
  • Make it creamy: Add vegan mayo or avocado to the dressing for a creamier texture.

Cooking Note

Chickpea Pasta Salad can be made ahead of time, and in fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop. It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

This Chickpea Pasta Salad is a perfect meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with:

  • Grilled vegetables or skewers
  • A light green salad with a citrus dressing
  • Vegan wraps or sandwiches
  • Roasted sweet potatoes or crispy tofu

Helpful Tips

  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will hold up better in the salad and maintain its texture.
  • Cool the pasta before mixing: Allow the pasta to cool completely before mixing it with the dressing. This will prevent the dressing from getting absorbed by the hot pasta.
  • Make extra dressing: If you like extra flavor, double the dressing recipe and keep it on hand to drizzle over the salad just before serving.
  • Use high-quality olive oil: The olive oil is a key ingredient in the dressing, so using a good extra virgin olive oil will make a big difference in the final flavor.

Tips for the Best Chickpea Pasta Salad

  • If you want the salad to be extra crunchy, use a variety of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and even shredded carrots.
  • Adjust the vinegar and mustard to your taste. You can use balsamic vinegar for a sweeter dressing or lemon juice for a more citrusy kick.
  • Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the dressing to penetrate the pasta and veggies for maximum flavor.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

10 minutes

Total Time:

20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 12g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Sugar: 5g

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can easily substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta. It will still work perfectly with the dressing and vegetables.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad actually tastes better after sitting for a while as the flavors marinate. Make it a day ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

3. How can I add more flavor to the dressing?
To make the dressing more flavorful, try adding a tablespoon of tahini, nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste, or some Dijon mustard for extra tang.

Conclusion

Chickpea Pasta Salad is a nutritious, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, filling meal. With a delicious blend of pasta, chickpeas, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a tangy dressing, it’s a satisfying meal that’s great for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at a party. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this salad is sure to become a go-to recipe in your meal rotation. Enjoy it fresh or chilled, and savor the hearty, delicious flavors in every bite!

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