Chickpea Pasta Salad

This chickpea pasta salad will fit the bill if you want a hearty, vegetarian dish. The recipe combines al dente bow tie pasta with refreshing vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and basil. Then we add chickpeas, olives and feta, and finish it off with a tangy red wine vinaigrette. It’s the ideal recipe for a quick-prep lunch, or you can enjoy it as a side dish with a savory meat or fish entree for dinner.

Chickpea Pasta Salad Ingredients

• Pasta: We opt for bow tie pasta in this recipe because the grooves and ridges in this pasta shape absorb the delightful flavors from the add-ins and dressing.
• Add-ins: We add chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Greek olives and basil into this zesty pasta salad. 
• Red wine vinaigrette: We make a homemade tangy vinaigrette by whisking together red wine vinegar, lemon juice, crumbled feta, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, pepper and olive oil.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

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Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain it, rinse it in cold water and transfer it to a large bowl.

Step 2: Assemble the pasta salad

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Stir in the chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives and basil.

Step 3: Make the vinaigrette

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In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, crumbled feta, mustard, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil, while continuing to mix until combined.

Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad, and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate until the salad is chilled, one to two hours. If desired, sprinkle with additional feta cheese before serving.

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Chickpea Pasta Salad Variations

• Swap the dressing: This type of pasta salad’s dressing has countless options—think balsamic, champagne or herb vinaigrette. (Psst: Here are a bunch of recipes for homemade salad dressings.) 
• Add a different cheese: Instead of feta, add mozzarella pearls, crumbles of cotija or pieces of goat cheese. 
• Switch the pasta: For this recipe, you can use penne, fusilli or rotini instead of bow tie pasta. 

How to Store Chickpea Pasta Salad

You can store this chickpea pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for three to five days.

Can you make this chickpea pasta salad recipe ahead of time?

If you’re meal prepping, you can prepare this chickpea pasta salad dish in advance. Follow the recipe, store it in your fridge for three to five days and scoop it into a bowl when you’re ready to eat. 

Can you freeze this chickpea pasta salad dish?

We don’t recommend freezing this chickpea pasta salad because the textures and flavor will become compromised once it thaws.

How long does pasta chickpea salad last?

Chickpea pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to five days.

Chickpea Pasta Salad Tips

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How do you prevent chickpea pasta salad from getting soggy?

To enhance your pasta dish, strive for an al dente texture by cooking the pasta to the point that it retains a slight firmness. When making pasta salad, use dressing sparingly, and reserve some on the side for people who prefer theirs a bit more saucy.

Can you use leftover pasta for chickpea pasta salad recipes?

You can use leftover al dente pasta for this recipe, but we advise against using any pasta that might be nearing overcooked.

What can you serve with chickpea pasta salad?

This chickpea pasta salad is delicious on its own, but it’ll also shine when served with hearty grilled proteins like Mediterranean chicken, ribeye with herb butter or citrusy salmon.