Mediterranean Greek Pasta Salad with Chickpeas
introduction
Mediterranean Greek Pasta Salad with Chickpeas is a refreshing and nutritious dish packed with flavors of the Mediterranean. This vibrant salad brings together pasta, vegetables, chickpeas, and feta cheese, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or as a side dish at your next gathering.
why make this recipe
This Mediterranean Greek Pasta Salad is not only easy to prepare but also very healthy. It is filled with protein from chickpeas, healthy fats from olive oil, and lots of fresh vegetables. Plus, it’s customizable! You can enjoy it as a meal prep option for a week or serve it at parties. The flavors blend beautifully after chilling, making it even tastier.
how to make Mediterranean Greek Pasta Salad with Chickpeas
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
how to serve Mediterranean Greek Pasta Salad with Chickpeas
Serve this pasta salad cold or at room temperature. It makes a great main dish for lunch or a side dish at barbecues and parties. You can garnish it with extra feta cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness.
how to store Mediterranean Greek Pasta Salad with Chickpeas
Keep any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3-5 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.
tips to make Mediterranean Greek Pasta Salad with Chickpeas
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Feel free to add more vegetables according to your taste, such as bell peppers or spinach.
- For an extra protein boost, add cooked chicken or tuna.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Don’t hesitate to add more olive oil, vinegar, or herbs!
variation
You can make a vegan version by skipping the feta cheese or using a plant-based alternative. Adding grains like quinoa or couscous can give it an interesting twist as well!
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.
Is this salad gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta instead.
Can I use other types of beans instead of chickpeas?
Absolutely! You can substitute chickpeas with black beans or white beans if you prefer.
Mediterranean Greek Pasta Salad with Chickpeas
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing Mediterranean salad with pasta, chickpeas, and feta cheese, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
Notes
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with extra feta cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
