Herby Chickpea and Feta Pasta Salad
A delightful combination of flavors and textures that encapsulates the essence of summer, featuring pasta, chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (orzo, fusilli, or bowtie) Tender and delicious, serving as the base of the salad.
- 1 15 oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained Creamy and packed with protein.
- 1 cup diced Persian cucumbers Refreshing and crisp.
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes Bursting with sweetness.
Cheese and Crunchy Elements
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese Tangy and creamy.
- ⅓ cup chopped roasted pistachios Crunchy and nutty.
- ¼ cup pickled red onions Tangy and colorful.
Herbs and Fresh Ingredients
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley Aromatic and colorful.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint or basil Fragrant and bright.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill Herbal and aromatic.
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice Zesty and bright.
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Rich and fragrant.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard Tangy and sharp.
- 1 clove garlic, minced Aromatic and flavorful.
- ¼ tsp salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Enhances all flavors.
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes Adds a touch of heat.
- ½ tsp sugar or honey Balances the acidity.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cool running water to stop the cooking process.
Make the Dressing
- In a bowl or mason jar, combine lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, red pepper flakes, sugar or honey, and black pepper. Whisk or shake to combine.
Combine Salad Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chickpeas, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta, pistachios, pickled onions, and chopped herbs.
Finalize the Salad
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate to let the flavors meld.
Notes
Chill before serving to enhance flavors. Use seasonal vegetables for the best taste. Taste as you go to ensure correct seasoning.