A vibrant, creamy pasta salad tossed in a herby Green Goddess dressing, packed with tender chickpeas, sweet peas, and fresh greens. This vegan dish is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, picnics, or a refreshing meal prep option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh and creamy: The Green Goddess dressing is rich and creamy, thanks to avocado and plant-based yogurt, making this pasta salad both satisfying and refreshing.
Packed with plant protein: Chickpeas and peas provide a hearty dose of plant-based protein and fiber, making this a filling dish.
Vibrant and colorful: With fresh herbs, green peas, and mixed greens, this pasta salad is not only delicious but also beautiful to look at.
Perfect for meal prep: This dish stores well in the fridge for several days, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own, and use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz pasta shells or your favorite short pasta
1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 cup green peas (fresh or thawed from frozen)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup fresh parsley
2 tbsp fresh dill
1 clove garlic
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 ripe avocado
2 tbsp plant-based yogurt or tahini
Salt and pepper, to taste
Mixed greens or baby spinach (optional)
Edible flowers or basil leaves for garnish (optional)

directions

Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
Make the Green Goddess dressing: In a food processor, blend the basil, parsley, dill, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, avocado, and plant-based yogurt or tahini until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chickpeas, and green peas.
Add the dressing: Pour the Green Goddess dressing over the pasta mixture and toss well to coat evenly.
Optional greens and garnish: Fold in a handful of mixed greens or baby spinach if desired, and garnish with edible flowers or extra basil leaves for a beautiful finishing touch.
Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 380 kcal per serving

Variations

Add roasted veggies: Add roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the salad for extra flavor and texture.
Add nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for added crunch.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the dressing for a spicy kick.
Use different herbs: Try adding mint, tarragon, or chives to the dressing for a different herby flavor.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish is best served cold, so no need to reheat. It also holds up well for meal prep.

FAQs

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, this pasta salad can be made a day ahead of time. The flavors will actually improve as they sit in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

Yes, canned chickpeas are a great shortcut and work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before using.

How can I make this salad spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or toss in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Can I make this salad without avocado?

If you don’t have avocado, you can replace it with an additional 2 tablespoons of plant-based yogurt or tahini for a creamy texture.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite short pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just ensure it holds the dressing well.

Is this salad gluten-free?

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, you can add grilled tofu, tempeh, or even roasted chickpeas for extra protein.

How do I store this pasta salad?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The dressing may thicken slightly in the fridge, so just give it a good toss before serving.

Can I make this salad without the greens?

Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the mixed greens or spinach, but they do add a nice layer of freshness to the dish.

Can I use frozen peas?

Yes, frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe—just thaw them before using.

Conclusion

This Vegan Green Goddess Pasta Salad with Chickpeas is a vibrant, creamy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for spring and summer meals. Packed with fresh herbs, tender chickpeas, and a flavorful Green Goddess dressing, it’s an ideal choice for picnics, BBQs, or meal prep. With its combination of textures and flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a satisfying lunch!