Chickpea Pasta Salad
A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad packed with protein-rich chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a quick meal prep.
For 2 servings
Cook and cool the pasta.
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
- Add 1 tsp of salt, then add the pasta.
- Cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
TIPRinsing the pasta not only cools it but also removes excess starch, preventing the salad from becoming gummy.Whisk the lemon-herb dressing.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
TIPFor a creamier dressing, you can shake all the ingredients together in a sealed jar.Combine the salad ingredients.
- In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, rinsed chickpeas, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely diced red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the salad.
- Add the fresh parsley and toss everything together until evenly coated.
TIPFor the best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the pasta and vegetables to absorb the dressing.Serve or store.
Serve the pasta salad immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use any short pasta shape you like, such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle.
- 2For extra flavor, feel free to add other ingredients like Kalamata olives, feta cheese, or bell peppers.
- 3If the salad seems a bit dry after being refrigerated, refresh it with an extra squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
- 4Rinse your red onion under cold water after dicing to mellow out its sharp bite.
Adapt it for your goals.
Gluten free
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Cook according to package directions.
high proteinHigh protein
Add 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken or a can of tuna (drained) for an extra protein boost.
veganVegan
This recipe is already vegan. Ensure you are using a pasta brand that does not contain eggs.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Dice the vegetables smaller and use a fun pasta shape. You can also add some sweet corn for a touch of sweetness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
High in Dietary Fiber
With fiber from whole-wheat pasta, chickpeas, and vegetables, this salad supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Packed with Vitamins and Antioxidants
The variety of fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and immunity.
Heart-Healthy Fats
The dressing uses olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats. These healthy fats are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy and balanced meal. It provides plant-based protein and fiber from chickpeas, complex carbohydrates from whole-wheat pasta, and plenty of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables.
