Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta Salad

Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed dish featuring chickpea pasta, crisp cucumbers, and fresh herbs in a zesty lemon dressing. This Mediterranean-inspired meal is perfect for a light lunch or a summer picnic, offering a vibrant blend of textures and flavors.

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This salad combines the heartiness of chickpea pasta with the crunch of red onion and cucumbers. The homemade dressing, made with fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard, ties everything together for a bright and satisfying finish.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 250 g (9 oz) chickpea pasta
• Vegetables: 1 large cucumber (diced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/4 red onion (finely chopped)
• Fresh Herbs: 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped), 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped), 2 tbsp fresh mint (chopped)
• Dressing: 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, zest and juice of 1 large lemon, 1 garlic clove (minced), 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Optional Additions: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (omit for vegan), 1/4 cup kalamata olives (pitted and sliced)

Grill meats and vegetables indoors with beautiful sear marks and easy cleanup using minimal oil.

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Instructions

Step 1

Cook the chickpea pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, dill, and mint.

Step 3

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 4

Add the cooked, cooled pasta to the vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Step 5

If desired, fold in the feta cheese and olives.

Step 6

Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, be sure to rinse the chickpea pasta under cold water immediately after draining. This prevents the pasta from becoming overcooked or gummy. Chilling the finished salad for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative. If you want even more protein, try adding cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken. If chickpea pasta is unavailable, whole-wheat or lentil pasta are excellent substitutes.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this salad chilled for a refreshing experience. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a glass of iced herbal tea. It makes for a great side dish at a barbecue or a standalone light lunch.

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Whether you are looking for a healthy picnic option or a quick dinner, this Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta Salad is a delicious and nutritious choice that everyone will enjoy.

Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can this salad be made ahead?

Yes, it's ideal for meal prep. Make the salad up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve as they meld together. If preparing more than a few hours ahead, dress lightly and add extra dressing just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.

→ What can I substitute for chickpea pasta?

Whole-wheat pasta, lentil pasta, or regular semolina pasta work well. Chickpea pasta provides extra protein, but other alternatives maintain the salad's structure and appeal. Choose based on dietary preferences and ingredient availability.

→ How do I make this vegan?

Omit the feta cheese or use plant-based feta as a replacement. All other components—pasta, vegetables, herbs, and dressing—are naturally vegan. For added protein, incorporate cooked chickpeas or marinated tofu.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, cooked chickpeas, hard-boiled eggs, or marinated tofu are excellent additions. For a seafood version, consider adding grilled shrimp or white fish. Each increases the protein content significantly.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may absorb dressing over time, so store dressing separately if preparing well ahead. Refresh with a light drizzle of lemon juice and olive oil before serving.

→ Is this gluten-free?

Yes, when using certified gluten-free chickpea pasta. Always verify pasta packaging for gluten certification, as processing facilities can vary. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.