This Easy Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is a fun and spicy twist on a classic dish! With tender pasta, chickpeas, and a zesty buffalo sauce, you get a bowl full of flavor that’s hard to resist.
I love how quick it comes together. Just mix everything in one bowl, and it’s ready to enjoy! Perfect for lunch or a side at dinner. Plus, who can say no to a little kick? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini is great for trapping all the flavors in this salad. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with fusilli, penne, or even whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are convenient and tasty. If you’re looking for a change, you can use black beans or kidney beans instead. They add a different flavor but still match well with buffalo sauce!
Buffalo Sauce: This brings the heat. If you prefer milder flavors, mix buffalo sauce with some barbecue sauce or a creamy dressing to tone it down a bit. You can also make your own by mixing hot sauce with melted butter.
Ranch Dressing: It complements the spiciness of the buffalo sauce. If you’re not a fan, you can use yogurt dressing or even a vinaigrette for a lighter option.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta just right is essential for a great pasta salad. Here’s how to ensure your pasta is cooked perfectly:
- Start with a large pot of boiling salted water. The salt enhances the flavor of the pasta.
- Cook until al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite. Check the package for timing, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta but don’t rinse it if you want it to absorb flavors. If you’re making a salad, rinsing it under cold water stops the cooking process.
- Spread the pasta on a baking sheet to cool it quickly. This prevents it from sticking together.
Following these steps will help ensure your pasta salad has great texture! Enjoy making your salad! 🌟
Easy Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced carrots (about 1 small carrot)
- 2 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes of chilling time before serving. It’s quick to assemble, and the chilling time helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set it aside.
2. Preparing the Chickpeas:
While your pasta is cooking, you can prepare the chickpeas. If you like a crispy texture, toss the drained chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 15-20 minutes. If you prefer them softer, you can simply use the chickpeas straight from the can.
3. Mixing the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chickpeas (whether roasted or not), halved cherry tomatoes, shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced carrots, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir gently to mix everything together.
4. Adding Flavor:
Pour in the buffalo sauce and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss all the ingredients gently until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated in the buffalo sauce, ensuring a good flavor throughout.
5. Dress It Up:
Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad and toss lightly once more, leaving some dressing visible for extra creaminess. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
6. Garnishing:
To finish, garnish the salad with the green parts of the sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Chill and Serve:
It’s best to chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. However, you can also serve it immediately if you’re in a hurry.
Enjoy this creamy, spicy, and hearty pasta salad that’s perfect for any occasion! It’s a great meal prep option or a delightful side dish for gatherings. 🥗
FAQ for Easy Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta, such as brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions for the best results.
How Can I Make This Salad Even Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce directly into the salad. You can also increase the amount of buffalo sauce to your liking.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply substitute the mozzarella cheese with a dairy-free cheese option or omit it altogether. For the ranch dressing, look for a vegan ranch or make your own using silken tofu and herbs.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to add a little extra ranch or buffalo sauce when you reheat or serve it again.
