Lemon Garlic Chickpea Pasta Salad

In recent years, there has been a significant shift toward plant-based meals, driven by a growing awareness of health, sustainability, and ethical eating. As people seek to incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and legumes into their diets, salads have emerged as a versatile and appealing option that can cater to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Among the myriad of salad options, the Zesty Lemon Garlic Chickpea Pasta Salad stands out as a refreshing and nutritious choice that is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor.

Discover a refreshing plant-based recipe with the Zesty Lemon Garlic Chickpea Pasta Salad. This delicious salad combines whole wheat pasta and creamy chickpeas, creating a filling and nutritious meal that's easy to make. Packed with vibrant vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, it’s perfect for any occasion—lunch, dinner, or picnics. Customize it to your taste, and enjoy the burst of flavor while reaping the health benefits of plant-based ingredients!

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Ingredients

8 oz (225g) whole wheat pasta (fusilli or penne)

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1/4 red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 large lemon

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and basil. If using, add the crumbled feta cheese.

Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon garlic dressing over the pasta salad. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.

Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cool or at room temperature.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 4-6 servings