Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta Salad

This Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed dish that brings the bright flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. Featuring wholesome chickpea pasta, crisp vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing, it is an ideal choice for a light lunch, a healthy meal prep option, or a vibrant side for your next summer picnic.

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The secret to this salad lies in the combination of fresh herbs—parsley, dill, and mint—which provide a fragrant complexity that perfectly complements the tangy lemon and Dijon mustard dressing. Every forkful offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of zesty flavor.

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)

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, rinse the chickpea pasta under cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process. For the most cohesive flavor profile, use a large mixing bowl to toss the ingredients and a small whisk to emulsify the dressing thoroughly. Chilling the salad for at least 15 minutes is essential for the herbs and lemon to fully infuse the pasta.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, simply omit the feta cheese or swap it for a plant-based feta alternative. If you want to increase the protein content even further, consider adding a can of drained chickpeas or some grilled chicken. While chickpea pasta is recommended for its nutty flavor and protein, you can also use whole-wheat or lentil pasta as excellent substitutes.

Serviervorschläge

This salad is best served chilled. It pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for a sophisticated lunch or a tall glass of iced herbal tea for a refreshing summer afternoon meal.

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Nutritional Information (per serving): 350 Calories, 13 g Total Fat, 46 g Carbohydrates, 13 g Protein. This Mediterranean-inspired Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta Salad is a wholesome way to enjoy a delicious, balanced meal any day of the week.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is excellent for meal prep. Assemble it up to 2 hours ahead, then refrigerate. For longer storage, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to maintain pasta texture.

→ What can I use instead of chickpea pasta?

You can substitute with lentil pasta, whole wheat pasta, or regular durum wheat pasta. Chickpea and lentil varieties add extra protein, but any pasta works well with these bright Mediterranean flavors.

→ How do I make this vegan?

Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative. All other ingredients are naturally vegan. The lemon dressing is entirely plant-based and provides excellent flavor without any dairy.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely. Fold in cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken breast, white beans, or tofu for added protein. Grilled shrimp also pairs beautifully with the lemon and herb flavors.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, add a splash of fresh lemon juice when serving to refresh the flavors.

→ What wine pairs well with this salad?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemon and herb notes beautifully. Alternatively, serve with pinot grigio, vermentino, or chilled herbal tea for a refreshing non-alcoholic pairing.