Delicious and Refreshing Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Salad

This Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Salad is packed with flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. It combines cooked pasta with a medley of fresh vegetables, chickpeas, and a tangy dressing. Enjoy it as a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. It's easy to make and perfect for a crowd!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, chickpeas, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Interesting Facts