This Easy Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad mixes hearty pasta with spicy buffalo sauce and crunchy veggies. It’s a fun and tasty way to enjoy a meal that’s both filling and zesty!
You’ll love how quick it comes together! It’s perfect for lunch or a picnic. I often make a big bowl to share, but let’s be real—sometimes it disappears before anyone else gets a bite! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini because its twists hold onto dressing well. You can substitute with any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if needed!
Chickpeas: These are great for protein! If you’re not a fan, substitute with black beans or white beans. Tofu is also a nice option if you’re looking for something different.
Buffalo Sauce: The spice level can vary, so start with less and add more to taste. If you’re avoiding spice, try a mild BBQ sauce instead!
Ranch Dressing: I prefer the classic ranch for flavor, but you can easily swap it for a dairy-free version or even tahini dressing for a unique twist!
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for a Salad?
Cooking pasta for a salad needs some attentiveness. You want it firm enough to hold up in the salad, not mushy.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding the pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Remember, it will soften a bit more as it cools.
- Once done, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
This ensures your pasta stays firm and doesn’t clump together in the salad! Trust me; it’s worth the extra step!
Easy Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced carrots
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 green onions, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (or vegan ranch for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus optional chilling time of 30 minutes in the fridge. It’s super quick and perfect for a meal prep or to impress your friends at a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set aside to let it drain.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced carrots, chopped celery, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped green onions. Stir everything together gently until well mixed.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and olive oil until smooth and blended. Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce if you prefer it spicier!
4. Mix It All Together:
Add the cooled pasta to the mixing bowl with the vegetable and chickpea mixture. Pour the buffalo ranch dressing over the top and toss everything until well combined and evenly coated.
5. Season and Garnish:
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra pop of flavor, garnish with additional chopped green onions or some more shredded mozzarella cheese if you’d like.
6. Serve or Chill:
You can enjoy your salad right away, or for the best flavors, cover and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Either way, it’s going to be delicious!
Enjoy your flavorful, spicy, and crunchy buffalo chickpea pasta salad! Perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may vary slightly.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply use a vegan ranch dressing instead of traditional ranch and opt for a dairy-free cheese substitute if desired. The buffalo sauce is typically vegan, but always check the label to be sure!
Can I Store Leftovers? If So, How Long Do They Last?
Yes, you can store leftovers! Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may soften slightly as it sits, so give it a good stir before serving it again!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This salad is versatile! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, corn, or avocado for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating!
