Cold Chickpea Pasta Salad

Pasta salads have gained immense popularity in recent years, emerging as a versatile meal option that caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish at a barbecue, or a hearty dinner, pasta salads offer endless possibilities for customization. One such delightful creation is the Chickpea Delight Pasta Salad—a vibrant, nutritious dish that showcases the harmony of wholesome ingredients. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also serves as a wholesome addition to any meal, making it suitable for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings.

Discover the vibrant Chickpea Delight Pasta Salad, a nutritious and customizable dish perfect for any occasion. Made with whole wheat pasta, fresh vegetables, and protein-packed chickpeas, this salad offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. Ideal for casual lunches, picnics, or festive gatherings, it’s a wholesome addition to your meal repertoire. Add optional feta cheese and Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist. Enjoy a delicious dish that nourishes your body and delights your taste buds!

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Ingredients

8 oz (225 g) whole wheat pasta (rotini or penne works well)

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1/4 red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Prepare Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, prep the vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, feta cheese (if using), and parsley.

Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified.

Combine: Once the pasta is cooled, add it to the mixing bowl with the vegetables and chickpeas. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly combined.

Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and for a refreshing coolness.

Serve: Give the salad a final toss before serving, adjusting seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired. Enjoy your refreshing Chickpea Delight Pasta Salad!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 4-6 servings