Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
This Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that packs a punch! With its crispy buffalo chickpeas and creamy dairy-free ranch, it’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner. Not only is it vegan and delicious, but it also combines pasta with fresh veggies, making it a colorful and healthy choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch creates a unique taste that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chickpeas and healthy fats from avocados, this salad is nutritious as well as satisfying.
- Great for Meal Prep: This pasta salad keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping lunches.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad, gather the essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Food processor or blender
- Large mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly and efficiently.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chickpeas to achieve that crispy texture.
- Food processor or blender: Makes blending the ranch dressing easy and ensures a smooth consistency.
Ingredients
This Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is the ultimate vegan salad! Made with crispy buffalo chickpeas, dairy-free green chile ranch, pasta & veggies!
For the Pasta Salad
- 1 pound short pasta (I used cavatappi)
- 1 bell pepper (diced)
- 10 ounces grape tomatoes (halved)
- 1 bunch cilantro (chopped)
- 1/2 large red onion (diced, or 1 small onion)
- 2 small avocados (chopped)
- 2 green onions (diced, for topping)
For the Crispy Chickpeas
- 1 teaspoon avocado oil
- 1 15-ounce can chickpeas (drained & rinsed)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (I used Frank’s Red Hot)
For the Ranch Dressing
- 2/3 cups vegan mayo
- 1 4-ounce can green chiles
- 2 cloves garlic (peeled)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried chives
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (to taste)
How to Make Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
- Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chickpeas
- Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chickpeas along with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes until they start to get crispy.
- Pour in the buffalo sauce and cook for another couple of minutes while stirring frequently. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Step 3: Make the Ranch Dressing
- Add all ranch ingredients into a food processor or blender.
- Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced veggies, crispy chickpeas, and ranch dressing.
- Toss everything together until well mixed.
- Top with diced green onions before serving.
Enjoy this delicious Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad at your next gathering or as part of your weekly meal prep!
How to Serve Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your occasion. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, a potluck, or just enjoying a meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
As a Main Dish
- Enjoy it as a hearty main course packed with protein and flavor. The combination of pasta, chickpeas, and veggies makes for a filling meal.
As a Side Dish
- Pair it with grilled vegetables or proteins for a balanced meal. The spicy buffalo flavor complements many dishes perfectly.
In Wraps or Pitas
- Use the salad as a filling for wraps or pitas. This makes for an easy-to-eat lunch option that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Chilled on Hot Days
- Serve the salad cold on hot summer days. It’s refreshing and perfect for outdoor gatherings or barbecues.
Topped with Extra Ingredients
- Add extra toppings like sliced jalapeños or crunchy tortilla chips for added texture and flavor. This gives your dish an exciting twist!
How to Perfect Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
To achieve the best Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad, follow these tips that ensure maximum flavor and freshness.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce enhances the taste and nutrition of your salad. Always choose ripe tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and fresh herbs.
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Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce. You can always add more if you like it spicy!
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Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out or add vegetables according to your preference. Carrots or cucumbers work great!
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Make Ahead of Time: Prepare the salad ahead of time for busy days. It keeps well in the fridge and can be enjoyed over several days.
Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad pairs well with many side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that balances the spiciness of the salad.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus brings additional nutrients and flavors.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a comforting addition perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds sweetness and hydration alongside your meal.
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Potato Wedges: Spicy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent companion to this zesty dish.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add protein while keeping everything plant-based and wholesome.
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Stuffed Avocados: Avocados filled with chickpeas or other fillings create another layer of flavor while maintaining a creamy texture.
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Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad offers crunch and freshness, making it an ideal pairing for this pasta dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions and check for al dente texture.
- Not seasoning enough: Failing to season the chickpeas and veggies can lead to bland flavors. Use adequate spices and sauces for a vibrant taste.
- Skipping the cooling step: Not letting the chickpeas cool after cooking can cause the salad to heat up. Allow them to cool to enhance the overall flavor.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or old ingredients can negatively affect taste. Always opt for fresh veggies and herbs for maximum flavor.
- Forgetting about customization: Sticking strictly to the recipe might mean missing out on personal touches. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap in different dressings.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Keep salad refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Freezing Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen without dressing for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad that may help you while preparing it.
What is Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?
Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is a flavorful vegan dish made with pasta, crispy buffalo chickpeas, fresh veggies, and a creamy dairy-free ranch dressing.
Can I customize my Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like corn, black beans, or even different spices to create your own variation of this salad.
How do I store leftover Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze without dressing.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with various short pasta shapes like penne or rotini based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables and dressings to suit your taste. Whether as a main dish or side, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe and enjoy a fresh, flavorful meal!
Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful vegan dish that combines crispy buffalo chickpeas with a medley of fresh vegetables and creamy dairy-free ranch. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Packed with protein from chickpeas and healthy fats from avocados, it offers a satisfying meal option that’s as colorful as it is tasty. With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this zesty salad that impresses guests and delights your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound short pasta (cavatappi recommended)
- 1 bell pepper (diced)
- 10 ounces grape tomatoes (halved)
- 1 bunch cilantro (chopped)
- 2 small avocados (chopped)
- 1 can chickpeas (drained & rinsed)
- Buffalo sauce
- Vegan mayo
- Green chiles
- Garlic
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add chickpeas, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and pepper; cook until crispy. Add buffalo sauce and stir before removing from heat.
- Blend ranch dressing ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
- In a bowl, combine cooked pasta, veggies, crispy chickpeas, and ranch dressing; toss well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
