Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Looking for a healthier take on the classic pasta salad? Make this Mediterranean pasta salad made with chickpeas, veggies like Empress purple tomatoes, and a homemade Italian dressing. This easy pasta salad recipe is great for meal prep and can easily be customized to your liking.
Prep Time15 minutes mins
Cook Time10 minutes mins
Total Time25 minutes mins
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 463kcal
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 9 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
- 3/4 cup kalamata olives, halved
- 3/4 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/3 cup shredded parmesan
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Italian Dressing
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp pepperoncini brine
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp sea salt and ground black pepper
Cook the pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside to cool slightly before assembling your pasta salad.
While the pasta cooks, chop all the other salad ingredients and set aside.
Add all of the Italian dressing ingredients to a jar and shake well to combine.
To a large serving bowl, add the pasta, pasta salad veggies & cheese, and then drizzle with the Italian dressing. Serve immediately or it can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Calories: 463kcal | Carbohydrates: 58g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 539mg | Potassium: 426mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1517IU | Vitamin C: 39mg | Calcium: 108mg | Iron: 3mg