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In today's fast-paced world, finding meals that are both quick to prepare and nutritious can be a challenge. Enter the Zesty Lemon Garlic Chickpea Pasta Salad, a recipe that not only caters to the need for convenience but also champions healthy eating. This vibrant dish combines the satisfying texture of whole wheat pasta with the protein-packed goodness of chickpeas, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a filling side at dinner. With its refreshing blend of flavors and colorful ingredients, this salad is sure to please anyone seeking a delicious and wholesome meal.

Lemon Garlic Chickpea Pasta Salad

Discover the Zesty Lemon Garlic Chickpea Pasta Salad, the perfect blend of nutrition and flavor for quick, healthy meals. This vibrant dish combines whole wheat pasta and protein-rich chickpeas with fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, all dressed in a zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette. Ideal for lunches, potlucks, or meal prep, this salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Embrace healthy eating with this deliciously refreshing recipe!

Ingredients
  

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

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (optional)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/3 cup)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried oregano

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 olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as desired.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives.

        Add the Dressing: Pour the lemon garlic dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss everything together until well coated. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly mixed.

          Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step can be skipped if you're in a hurry, but chilling enhances the taste.

            Serve: Give the salad a good toss before serving, adjusting seasoning if necessary. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 4 servings