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Italian Pasta Salad

Deliciously Zesty Italian Pasta Salad for Summer Gatherings

This Italian Pasta Salad combines vibrant flavors with chickpeas and fresh veggies, making it a perfect summer dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Fusilli Pasta or gluten-free pasta
For the Protein
  • 1 can Chickpeas or black beans
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup Mini Sweet Peppers sliced
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach or arugula
For the Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated, or nutritional yeast for dairy-free
  • 1/2 cup Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese diced, or vegan cheese for dairy-free
For the Dressing
  • 1/3 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil or avocado oil
  • 3 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Pepperoncini Brine or Lemon Juice as a substitute
For the Aromatics
  • 1 small Shallot finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano or fresh herbs
  • 1 tsp Dried Parsley or fresh herbs
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Large spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, pepperoncini brine or lemon juice, shallots, garlic, oregano, and parsley. Whisk until emulsified and season with salt and pepper. Let sit for at least 10 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, sweet peppers, and spinach. Add pepperoncini, olives, Parmesan, and provolone or mozzarella cheese, gently folding together.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Serve chilled, and adjust seasoning before serving if needed.

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