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Italian Pasta Salad

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad with Chickpeas for Summer Vibes

This Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant medley of chickpeas and fresh veggies, perfect for summer vibes.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Best Recipe Ideas
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta & Protein
  • 8 oz Fusilli Pasta You can swap with your favorite pasta shape.
  • 15 oz Chickpeas Drained; white beans can be used as an alternative.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved; can also use grape or diced tomatoes.
  • 1 cup Mini Sweet Peppers Chopped; diced bell peppers can be used as a replacement.
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoncini Peppers Adjust to taste or substitute with banana peppers.
  • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Arugula can be used for a sharper flavor.
For the Same-flavored Extras
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives Green olives can be used as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper profile.
  • 1/2 cup Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese Substitute with any semi-soft cheese.
For the Zesty Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil High-quality oil ensures the best flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Can substitute with lemon juice.
  • 2 tbsp Pepperoncini Brine Fresh lemon juice can be used instead.
  • 1 medium Shallots Finely chopped; red onion can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder works in a pinch.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Can swap in fresh herbs.
  • 1 tsp Dried Parsley Can swap in fresh herbs.
  • to taste Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • to taste Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • colander
  • Medium bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Italian Pasta Salad
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fusilli pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, pepperoncini brine, shallots, garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, mini sweet peppers, and spinach. Add olives, provolone, and parmesan, and toss together.
  4. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, toss again and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add olive oil to revive moisture if needed.

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