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Italian Pasta Salad

Refreshing Italian Pasta Salad with Chickpeas for Summer Joy

This Italian Pasta Salad is a colorful and nutritious blend of chickpeas and summer vegetables, perfect for warm afternoons.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Fusilli Pasta or your favorite pasta shape
  • 1 can Chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup Mini Sweet Peppers chopped, any color
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoncini Peppers mild kick or substitute
  • 1/3 cup Kalamata Olives sliced
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup Provolone or Mozzarella cubed
  • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil premium for best taste
  • 3 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar or white wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Pepperoncini Brine or fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small Shallots finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, brine, shallots, garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let sit to meld flavors.
  3. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, chickpeas, tomatoes, peppers, and spinach. Toss gently.
  4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle dressing over salad, toss to coat, and adjust seasoning if needed. Flavor should balance.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving. Toss before serving to blend flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Customize with seasonal veggies and enjoy as a side or main dish for summer gatherings.

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