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Italian Pasta Salad

Deliciously Zesty Italian Pasta Salad with Chickpeas and Veggies

This Italian Pasta Salad features fusilli, chickpeas, and fresh veggies, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz Fusilli Pasta Can substitute with gluten-free pasta
  • 1 can Chickpeas Rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved
  • 1 cup Mini Sweet Peppers Diced
  • ½ cup Pepperoncini Peppers Can substitute with banana peppers
  • ½ cup Kalamata Olives Sliced
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Grated, can substitute with pecorino or omit
  • ½ cup Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese Cubed, can opt for vegan cheese
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Can substitute with kale or arugula
For the Dressing
  • ½ cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil High quality recommended
  • ¼ cup Red Wine Vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Pepperoncini Brine Can substitute with fresh lemon juice
  • 2 Minced Shallots Can substitute with red onion
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced, fresh required
  • 1 tbsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 tbsp Dried Parsley
  • to taste Kosher Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing bowls
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and pepperoncini brine in a mixing bowl. Add minced shallots, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Whisk until emulsified.
  3. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, sweet peppers, and baby spinach. Toss gently.
  4. Add Cheese and Olives: Fold in Parmesan, provolone, and Kalamata olives. Mix carefully to distribute ingredients without breaking the pasta.
  5. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
  7. Final Adjustments: Before serving, taste the salad and adjust seasonings. Add a splash of lemon juice or olive oil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving for best flavor. Use fresh ingredients for optimal taste.

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