Go Back
+ servings
Italian Pasta Salad

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad: Your New Favorite Summer Dish

Enjoy a vibrant and adaptable Italian Pasta Salad packed with chickpeas and fresh veggies, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Fusilli Pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired.
  • 1 can Chickpeas Rinsed.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved; substitute with grape tomatoes if preferred.
  • 1 cup Mini Sweet Peppers Chopped; substitute with regular bell peppers.
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoncini Peppers Sliced; use diced pickles for a milder taste.
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives Substitute with green olives if desired.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated; omit for dairy-free.
  • 1/2 cup Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese Cubed; omit or use vegan cheese for a vegan option.
  • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Can use arugula or mixed greens as substitutes.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil High-quality oil enhances flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar Substitute with white wine vinegar if desired.
  • 2 tbsp Pepperoncini Brine or Lemon Juice Based on personal preference.
  • 2 tbsp Shallots Finely minced.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 tsp Dried Parsley
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander
  • Spatula
  • tongs

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool down.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of extra-virgin olive oil and ¼ cup of red wine vinegar until well combined. Add in the minced shallots, garlic, 2 tablespoons of pepperoncini brine, dried oregano, dried parsley, kosher salt, and black pepper. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
  3. Add the cooled fusilli, 1 can of rinsed chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped mini sweet peppers, a handful of fresh baby spinach, sliced pepperoncini, and Kalamata olives in the same bowl. If desired, incorporate grated Parmesan cheese and cubed provolone. Mix gently.
  4. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, ensuring an even coating. Toss gently, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  5. Transfer the salad into an airtight container or cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Prepare the salad a day in advance for optimal flavor development. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!