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–+ servings
Italian Pasta Salad

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad Packed with Chickpeas and Veggies

This Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant, healthy dish featuring chickpeas and fresh vegetables, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Fusilli Pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a friendly option.
  • 1 can Chickpeas Drain and rinse for freshness.
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes Halved.
  • 1 cup Mini Sweet Peppers Diced.
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoncini Peppers Sliced.
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives Sliced.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional, can use vegan cheese for dairy-free.
  • 1/2 cup Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese Optional, omit for lighter option.
  • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Can substitute with arugula or kale.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Choose high-quality oil for best flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Pepperoncini Brine Fresh lemon juice can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Minced Shallots
  • 1 clove Garlic Minced.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh herbs can be used if available.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley Fresh herbs can be used if available.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Medium bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large spoon
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and pepperoncini brine. Mix in shallots, garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, sweet peppers, spinach, pepperoncini, and olives. Toss gently to mix.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat. Adjust seasoning if desired.
  5. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad can be customized with different ingredients like black beans or fresh herbs. Follow expert tips for the best results.

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