Imagine a dish that captures the vibrant essence of Mediterranean cuisine in just one bite - a refreshing, protein-packed pasta salad that's not just a meal, but a culinary adventure! This Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Salad is your ticket to a quick, delicious, and nutritious lunch or dinner that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for busy weeknights, summer picnics, or when you're craving something light yet satisfying, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (any shape)
- 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, drain and rinse the chickpeas under cold water. Set aside.
- Prepare the vegetables: Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and slice the Kalamata olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to ensure even coating.
- If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad and gently mix.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Use short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle that can hold the dressing and capture small ingredients.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta prevents the salad from becoming mushy when mixed with dressing.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add grilled chicken, swap feta for another cheese, or include additional herbs like fresh basil or parsley.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
- Keep Dressing Separate: If preparing in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate and adding just before serving to maintain the salad's texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
