Go Back

Fresh Chickpea Pasta Salad

This vibrant and refreshing pasta salad is easy to make, packed with protein from chickpeas, and perfect for a quick lunch or potluck.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Vegan
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 8 oz (225 g) short pasta (rotini or penne; gluten-free options work too) Cook according to package directions.
  • ½ cup (15 g) fresh parsley, chopped (or basil/cilantro if you’re feeling adventurous)
  • 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced (English cucumber preferred for that extra crunch)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) tahini
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the short pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  2. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking.
Preparing the Vegetables
  1. While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and chop the parsley.
Making the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, maple syrup, and olive oil until smooth and creamy.
  2. If the dressing is too thick, add water a teaspoon at a time.
Combining Ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley.
  2. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat.
  3. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Resting (Optional)
  1. Let salad rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in an airtight container. For the best texture, add dressing just before serving.