Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

This Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is a delightful vegan dish that brings together flavors and textures in a vibrant salad. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this salad features crispy buffalo chickpeas and a creamy dairy-free green chile ranch dressing. It’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this pasta salad will steal the show at any gathering.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

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 Dressing:
• How to Make Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Chickpeas
• Step 3: Make the Ranch Dressing
• Step 4: Assemble the Salad
• How to Serve Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
• As a Main Dish
• As a Side Salad
• For Meal Prep
• At Gatherings
• With Extra Toppings
• 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
• Can I use different pasta types for Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?
• Is Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad gluten-free?
• How can I customize my Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?
• What can I serve with Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of total time, this recipe is quick and simple.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of buffalo chickpeas and zesty ranch dressing creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a hearty side at barbecues and gatherings.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Loaded with fresh veggies and chickpeas for protein, this salad is both tasty and healthy.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe caters to vegan diets without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium-sized pot
• Skillet
• Food processor or blender
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium-sized pot: Perfect for boiling pasta efficiently while ensuring even cooking.
• Skillet: Ideal for achieving the crispy texture on the chickpeas with ease.
• Food processor or blender: Essential for creating a smooth and creamy ranch dressing quickly.

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)
• 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

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (I used Frank’s Red Hot)
• 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 avocado 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 begin to get crispy. Pour in the buffalo sauce and cook for another couple of minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Step 3: Make the Ranch Dressing

Add all ranch ingredients—vegan mayo, green chiles, garlic cloves, onion powder, parsley, chives, dill, pepper, and apple cider vinegar—to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced bell pepper, halved tomatoes, chopped cilantro, diced onion, chopped avocados, crispy chickpeas, and prepared ranch dressing. Toss everything gently to combine. Top with diced green onions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some great serving suggestions.

As a Main Dish

• This salad can be a filling main course, especially during warm weather. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a side of baked sweet potatoes for a complete meal.

As a Side Salad

• Serve this pasta salad alongside grilled vegetables or tofu for a delightful complement to any barbecue or picnic spread.

For Meal Prep

• Portion the salad into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It stays fresh and flavorful in the fridge for several days.

At Gatherings

• Bring Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad to potlucks or family gatherings. It’s sure to be a hit among both vegans and non-vegans alike!

With Extra Toppings

• Add additional toppings like toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch, or sprinkle some nutritional yeast for added flavor and nutrients.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

To elevate your Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall taste and texture of your salad.
• Customize spice levels: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your heat preference—add more for an extra kick!
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with pasta shapes: While cavatappi is great, try other short pastas like fusilli or penne for different textures.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky corn complements the spicy flavors of the salad perfectly.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances out the richness of the chickpeas.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring vibrant colors and flavors that harmonize with the pasta salad.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a favorite, perfect for scooping up any leftover salad.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta dish.
6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges add a satisfying crunch and can be seasoned similarly to match your pasta salad’s flavor profile.
7. Hummus and Veggies: A platter of hummus with assorted raw vegetables offers a healthy dip option that pairs nicely.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add protein while maintaining that fresh vibe alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad, it’s easy to make a few missteps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them.

• Ignoring the pasta cooking time: Always follow the package instructions for cooking pasta. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the salad’s texture.

• Not rinsing the chickpeas: Failing to rinse canned chickpeas can lead to an overly salty dish. Rinse them well to remove excess sodium and improve flavor.

• Skipping the cooling step: Letting chickpeas cool after cooking is essential. This prevents wilting of fresh vegetables when mixed together.

• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your ranch dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjusting seasonings ensures a balanced flavor profile.

• Overloading with ingredients: Adding too many veggies or toppings can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for a harmonious blend of flavors.

• Serving immediately: Allowing the salad to chill for 30 minutes enhances its flavors. This resting time makes a big difference!

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

• Not recommended for freezing, as it may alter texture and flavor upon thawing.

Reheating Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries answered.

Can I use different pasta types for Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?

Yes! Feel free to substitute short pasta with any shape you prefer, like penne or rotini.

Is Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of regular short pasta.

How can I customize my Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?

You can add or swap in your favorite vegetables like corn, cucumbers, or spinach based on your taste preferences!

What can I serve with Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled veggies, vegan burgers, or as a light main dish itself!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making it a day ahead lets flavors meld beautifully. Just store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or dressings. It makes a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. Try making this refreshing salad today and enjoy its bold flavors and healthy ingredients!