Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

This Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is a vibrant, satisfying dish that combines the hearty goodness of pasta with the spicy crunch of buffalo chickpeas. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight meal, this salad is not only vegan but also a crowd-pleaser. With its bold flavors and creamy dressing, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta Salad
• For the Crispy Chickpeas
• For the Vegan Ranch Dressing
• How to Make Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Chickpeas
• Step 3: Make the Vegan Ranch Dressing
• Step 4: Assemble the Salad
• How to Serve Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
• As a Main Dish
• With Crunchy Tortilla Chips
• In Lettuce Wraps
• Paired with Grilled Veggies
• Topped with Extra Avocado
• Served Cold or at Room Temperature
• How to Perfect Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
• Reheating Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad vegan?
• Can I customize my Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?
• What are good side dishes to serve with Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?
• How long will Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad last in the fridge?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy days.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy buffalo chickpeas and creamy green chile ranch delivers a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side; it pairs well with various meals.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies and healthy fats from avocados, this salad offers both nutrition and satisfaction.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad effortlessly, you will need some essential kitchen tools. They will help you prepare and mix all the ingredients perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot
• Skillet
• Food processor or blender
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot: A large pot is crucial for cooking pasta evenly and efficiently.
• Skillet: Use a skillet to achieve that perfect crispy texture on the chickpeas.
• Food Processor or Blender: This tool simplifies making the creamy ranch dressing, blending all ingredients smoothly.

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 Vegan 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

Meanwhile, 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 getting crispy. Pour in the buffalo sauce and cook for another couple of minutes while stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let them cool.

Step 3: Make the Vegan Ranch Dressing

Add all of the ranch ingredients to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced bell pepper, halved grape tomatoes, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, chopped avocados, crispy chickpeas, and ranch dressing. Toss everything together until well-mixed. Top with diced green onions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is not only a delightful main dish but also a versatile option for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual family dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• This salad makes for a hearty main course, providing protein and flavor. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, especially on warm days.

With Crunchy Tortilla Chips

• Serve alongside crunchy tortilla chips for an added texture contrast. The chips complement the creamy ranch dressing beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the salad into crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing twist. This option is great for low-carb diets and adds an extra crunch.

Paired with Grilled Veggies

• Grilled vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers make a fantastic side dish. Their smoky flavor pairs well with the buffalo chickpeas.

Topped with Extra Avocado

• For avocado lovers, adding sliced avocado on top enhances creaminess and nutrition. It’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Served Cold or at Room Temperature

• This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for potlucks or picnics. Just prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together.

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How to Perfect Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

Creating the ideal Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your salad is always a hit.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture. Opt for ripe tomatoes and crisp bell peppers.
• Adjust spice levels – Modify the amount of buffalo sauce based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice.
• Chill before serving – Allow your salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.
• Consider add-ins – Feel free to customize with additional toppings like corn or black beans for extra nutrients and taste.
• Store properly – To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Garnish creatively – Top with fresh cilantro or additional green onions just before serving for an eye-catching presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

When planning your meal around Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad, consider these complementary side dishes that can enhance your dining experience.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a summer vibe and pairs perfectly with the spicy flavors of the salad.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the pasta salad.
3. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, they provide a delightful crunch.
4. Watermelon Feta Salad – A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the pasta dish.
5. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks offer a comforting side that complements the creamy ranch dressing.
6. Mixed Green Salad – A simple green salad dressed lightly will add freshness without overpowering flavors.
7. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and acidity that pairs well with buffalo flavors.
8. Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges make any meal feel hearty while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad, there are a few common mistakes that you should watch out for to ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the rinsing of chickpeas: Not rinsing canned chickpeas can lead to a salty and metallic taste. Always drain and rinse them for better flavor.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta beyond the recommended time can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture.

• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to adjust the seasoning in your ranch dressing can make the salad bland. Taste it before serving and tweak as needed.

• Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados can be hard and tasteless. Choose ripe avocados for creaminess and flavor in your salad.

• Not letting the chickpeas cool: Adding hot chickpeas directly into the salad can wilt the veggies. Allow them to cool before mixing everything together.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the avocado separate if possible to prevent browning.

Freezing Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the pasta and veggies’ texture.
• If necessary, freeze without avocado or dressing.
• Consume within 1 month when frozen.

Reheating Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad that may help you with your preparation.

How do I make Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad vegan?

Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is naturally vegan as it uses chickpeas, pasta, vegetables, and a dairy-free ranch dressing made from vegan mayo.

Can I customize my Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like corn or spinach, swap pasta shapes, or even use different dressings based on your taste preferences.

What are good side dishes to serve with Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?

Consider pairing it with roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!

How long will Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines flavors and textures perfectly. It’s versatile enough for summer picnics or cozy dinners at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or dressings to fit your tastes!