Name: Greek Chickpea Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 8 oz dried chickpea pasta; ⅓ cup red onion (finely diced); 1 cup sweet cherry tomatoes (halved); 2 – 3 cups fresh arugula; 1 medium red bell pepper (de-seeded & chopped); 1 medium yellow or orange bell pepper (de-seeded & chopped); 1 medium green bell pepper (de-seeded & chopped); 1 ½ cups English cucumber (sliced into quarter-moons); ½ cup kalamata olives (no pits & sliced); 4 oz feta cheese (cut into ½ inch cubes or crumbled); 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 large lemon (juiced, about 3 – 4 tablespoons); 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp dijon mustard; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp salt (more to taste); ¼ tsp black pepper (more to taste)

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why make this recipe

Greek Chickpea Pasta Salad is a bright, healthy meal that’s both filling and refreshing. It combines the goodness of chickpea pasta with colorful vegetables, making it perfect for a summer lunch or side dish. This salad is not only gluten-free but also packed with nutrients. The unique flavors of olives, feta cheese, and a tangy dressing add a delightful twist to traditional pasta salads. It’s easy to make, suitable for gatherings, and can be enjoyed vegetarian or vegan by omitting the feta.

how to make Greek Chickpea Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

8 oz dried chickpea pasta
⅓ cup red onion (finely diced)
1 cup sweet cherry tomatoes (halved)
2 – 3 cups fresh arugula
1 medium red bell pepper (de-seeded & chopped)
1 medium yellow or orange bell pepper (de-seeded & chopped)
1 medium green bell pepper (de-seeded & chopped)
1 ½ cups English cucumber (sliced into quarter-moons, about 1 cucumber)
½ cup kalamata olives (no pits & sliced)
4 ounces feta cheese (cut into ½ inch cubes or ½ cup crumbled)
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 large lemon (juiced, about 3 – 4 tablespoons)
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt (more to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper (more to taste)

Directions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chickpea pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, strain the pasta and run it under cold water to cool. Set it aside.
In a small bowl, whisk all the dressing ingredients until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasonings as you prefer.
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta with the red onion, tomatoes, arugula, bell peppers, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese.
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together. Taste and make any adjustments to seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, pepper, or olive oil if needed.
For the best flavor, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to marinate. If you’re in a rush, you can serve it immediately and enjoy!

how to serve Greek Chickpea Pasta Salad

This salad can be served as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed alone for a light meal. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra feta or olives if desired.

how to store Greek Chickpea Pasta Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep well for up to 3 days. However, fresh vegetables may lose their crunch over time. You can also add a bit more dressing before serving if needed.

tips to make Greek Chickpea Pasta Salad

Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as artichokes, spinach, or zucchini.
Choose Your Pasta: While chickpea pasta is great for gluten-free options, you can also use whole wheat or regular pasta if you prefer.
Let it Marinate: For best flavor, always let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.

variation (if any)

You can easily transform this salad into a vegan dish by omitting the feta cheese. Additionally, you can include protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for added sustenance.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta types?
Yes! While chickpea pasta is gluten-free, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer.
How long can I keep this salad?
It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days, but try to consume it within 1-2 days for the best texture.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely, this salad is great for meal prep! Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Is it safe to freeze this salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the vegetables might become mushy when thawed.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil can bring an extra burst of flavor to your salad.