Cold Chickpea Pasta Salad

Chickpea Bliss Pasta Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that perfectly marries the wholesome goodness of whole grain or gluten-free pasta with the protein-packed power of chickpeas. This salad is not just a feast for the palate; it is also a celebration of health and nutrition. Combining the textures and flavors of fresh vegetables, this recipe offers a balanced meal suitable for any occasion, whether you're preparing for a summer picnic, looking for a light lunch, or wanting a hearty side dish to complement your evening meal. In this article, we will delve into the ingredients, preparation steps, and the numerous health benefits that make Chickpea Bliss Pasta Salad a standout choice for health-conscious eaters.

Discover the refreshing flavors of Chickpea Bliss Pasta Salad, a deliciously nutritious dish that combines whole grain or gluten-free pasta with protein-rich chickpeas and an array of fresh vegetables. Perfect for summer picnics, light lunches, or hearty side dishes, this salad not only tastes great but also supports your health with its rich fiber and essential nutrients. Easy to prepare and adaptable to various diets, this salad is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome meal.

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Ingredients

8 oz whole grain or gluten-free pasta (fusilli or penne works great)

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1 cup spinach or arugula, roughly chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved (optional)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, spinach (or arugula), Kalamata olives, feta (if using), and parsley.

Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss everything together until well combined. Be careful not to mush the chickpeas.

Chill: Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve: Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Enjoy your refreshing Chickpea Bliss Pasta Salad!

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