Discover the deliciousness of Italian Chopped Pasta Salad—a perfect gluten-free summer recipe that takes less than 15 minutes to prepare. Whip up a batch of this vibrant salad for an easy and satisfying meal prep option. 

Italian Chopped Pasta Salad

Have you ever tried an Italian salad that completely won you over? That’s exactly what happened to me when I ordered one at my favorite wine bar. The combination of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and a zesty dressing had me hooked. Inspired by that experience, I decided to recreate it at home, but with a twist—I turned it into a pasta salad! 

This Italian Chopped Pasta Salad has earned a permanent spot in my kitchen rotation! Its versatility, convenience, and delightful flavors make it an ideal choice for meal prep too. Whether you’re planning ahead for busy weekdays or simply want a quick and nutritious lunch option, this salad has you covered. The best part? It’s completely gluten-free, allowing everyone to enjoy its vibrant medley of ingredients. In under 15 minutes, you can create a refreshing and satisfying summer dish that will impress both your taste buds and anyone fortunate enough to share it with you.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

To bring this Italian Chopped Pasta Salad to life, you’ll need a handful of fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples:

• Pasta: For the base of this Italian Chopped Pasta Salad, I recommend using chickpea pasta—a gluten-free and protein-rich option that adds a delightful texture and nutty flavor. However, if you don’t have this on hand, feel free to substitute it with a classic wheat-based pasta, brown rice pasta, or whatever is your favorite!
• Lettuce Base: I love using crisp iceberg lettuce along with radicchio as the foundation of this salad for a classic Italian chop combo. If you don’t have these available, try substituting them with other leafy greens like romaine lettuce, spinach, or even arugula.
• Salami: To infuse the salad with savory goodness, I recommend adding salami. It brings a unique depth of flavor and adds a touch of indulgence. If salami isn’t your preference, you can try using other cured meats like pepperoni or prosciutto, or even substitute it with grilled chicken or turkey breast for a different twist.
• Chickpeas: Chickpeas are a fantastic addition to this salad, providing a creamy texture and another boost of plant-based protein. However, if you don’t have chickpeas on hand, you can leave them out as you’re already getting some chickpeas in the pasta!
• Vegetables: To enhance the freshness and vibrancy of the salad, I love adding cherry tomatoes and red onion. If you prefer different vegetables or have other options available, feel free to get creative! Banana peppers, cucumber, or even roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant can make wonderful additions.
• Red Wine Vinaigrette: The refreshing dressing brings all the flavors together in this Italian Chopped Pasta Salad. Just mix together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper! Or if you prefer something “ready-to-use”, feel free to pick up your favorite red wine vinaigrette at the grocery store.

Ways To Switch It Up

One of the best things about this Italian Chopped Pasta Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or make use of ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:

• Add fresh herbs: Sprinkle in some chopped basil or parsley for an extra burst of freshness.
• Play with different veggies: Swap out the iceberg lettuce and radicchio for arugula or spinach. Try incorporating other colorful vegetables like bell peppers or cucumber.
• Use your favorite pasta: While I personally think the chickpea pasta is the star of this recipe, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape or swap it for a classic durum pasta. 
• Explore alternative meats: If salami isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with diced grilled chicken, turkey, or even crispy bacon.

Chickpea Pasta

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying classic durum pasta – I do all the time! But I also love swapping for chickpea pasta in a lot of my dishes! It offers a variety of benefits that make it an excellent choice for those seeking a healthier twist on traditional pasta:

1. High in protein: Chickpea pasta packs a protein punch, making it a satisfying option for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to increase their protein intake.
2. Gluten-free: It’s a perfect choice for individuals with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free lifestyle.
3. Low glycemic index: Chickpea pasta has a lower glycemic index compared to traditional wheat-based pasta. This means it has a milder impact on blood sugar levels.
4. Rich in fiber: With a good amount of dietary fiber, chickpea pasta promotes healthy digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer.

By incorporating chickpea pasta into this Italian Chopped Pasta Salad, you’re not only adding a nutritious element but also enhancing the overall flavor and texture.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this Italian Chopped Pasta Salad a try. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors, an ideal recipe for summer gatherings, and a reliable option for those seeking a quick and delicious meal. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant combination of ingredients and savor every bite of this gluten-free delight!

Italian Chopped Pasta Salad

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 box Banza Pasta
• 1 cup iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup radicchio, chopped
• 1 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed 
• 4 oz salami, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar 
• ½ lemon, juiced
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder 
• 1 tsp italian seasoning 
• Salt & pepper to taste 

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dijon mustard, garlic powder, italian seasoning, and salt & pepper to taste. 
3. In a large bowl, combine pasta, lettuce, radicchio, chickpeas, salami, cherry tomatoes and red onion. Pour dressing over top and toss to combine. 
4. Serve and enjoy! 

Looking for more pasta salad recipes? You’ll love this Kale Caesar Pasta Salad. Make sure to give it a try and let me know how you like it!