Lemon Herb Chickpea Pasta

Last summer my neighbor brought over a container of this salad after a weekend barbecue and I honestly could not stop eating it straight from the fridge. There was something about the bright lemon cutting through the creamy chickpea pasta that made it impossible to put down. Now I make a double batch every Sunday because it somehow tastes even better on day three when all those herbs have really settled into the dressing.

I first brought this to a potluck when I was running late and threw everything together in about ten minutes. People kept asking me for the recipe which felt funny because it is so simple. Sometimes the most uncomplicated dishes end up being the ones everyone remembers most fondly.

Ingredients

• Chickpea pasta: This transforms a regular pasta salad into something with staying power that keeps you full for hours
• Cucumber: Adds this incredible crunch that plays so nicely against the soft pasta
• Fresh herbs: The combination of parsley dill and mint is what makes this sing do not skip any of them
• Lemon: Both zest and juice are non negotiable here for that bright punchy finish
• Garlic: One clove is just enough to give it depth without overpowering the fresh flavors
• Dijon mustard: The secret ingredient that makes the dressing actually cling to every piece of pasta
• Feta and olives: Totally optional but honestly they take this from great to unforgettable

Instructions

Get your pasta ready:

Cook the chickpea pasta according to package directions then drain and rinse it under cold water until it is cool to the touch.

Prep all your fresh vegetables:

Dice that cucumber halve your cherry tomatoes and finely chop the red onion into tiny pieces.

Chop your herbs:

Give yourself a generous quarter cup each of parsley dill and mint and chop them all together.

Make the dressing:

Whisk together the olive oil lemon zest and juice garlic Dijon salt and pepper until it is thick and creamy.

Bring it all together:

Toss the cooled pasta with all the vegetables and herbs then pour that dressing over everything and mix gently.

Add the finishing touches:

Fold in the feta and olives if you are using them then let it hang out in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.

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This became my go to for summer picnics after watching my friends actually fight over the last serving at the park. There is something so satisfying about watching people genuinely enjoy food that makes you feel good too.

Making It Your Own

I have tried swapping in regular pasta when I could not find chickpea pasta and while it is still tasty it just does not have that same satisfying protein punch. The chickpea version somehow manages to feel substantial while still tasting light and fresh which is a hard balance to strike.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this alongside anything grilled or just eat it straight from the bowl with a fork standing at the counter like I do most afternoons. It is that rare salad that works as a main dish or a side without feeling out of place in either role.

Storage And Meal Prep

This keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days and honestly tastes better on day two when everything has had time to get to know each other. The pasta soaks up the dressing so you might want to splash in a little more lemon right before serving leftovers.

• Store in an airtight container to keep everything fresh
• Wait to add the feta until just before serving if you are meal prepping
• Give it a good stir before packing for lunch to redistribute the dressing

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Every time I make this now I think about that summer afternoon and how the simplest food often creates the best memories. Hope this becomes a staple in your kitchen like it has in mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. This tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. The flavors meld beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or advance preparation for gatherings.

→ What can I substitute for chickpea pasta?

Whole wheat pasta, lentil pasta, or traditional semolina pasta work well. Cooking times may vary slightly, so follow package instructions and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop cooking.

→ How long does this keep in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, this keeps for 3-4 days. The pasta may absorb some dressing, so toss with a splash of olive oil and lemon juice before serving leftovers.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

Perfect for meal prep. Portion into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. The sturdy vegetables hold up beautifully without becoming soggy.

→ Can I add protein to make it more substantial?

Certainly. Grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, white beans, or even salmon would complement the Mediterranean flavors beautifully. Add these in step 4 when combining ingredients.

→ What herbs work best in this dish?

Parsley, dill, and mint create the classic Mediterranean trio. Fresh basil would be a lovely addition, while oregano or thyme could replace the dill if preferred. Stick to fresh herbs for best results.