Description
Chickpea pasta salad is a healthy and vibrant gluten-free dish featuring chickpea-based pasta, crisp vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing. It’s a protein-packed salad perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light, refreshing meal.
Ingredients
1 box chickpea pasta (about 8 ounces)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the chickpea pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta down.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and parsley.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese if using, and give a final toss.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a protein boost.
- Substitute or add veggies like bell pepper, zucchini, or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
- Mix in herbs like basil or mint for added flavor.
- Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 10mg