If you are looking for a way to enjoy a fresh, light summer pasta salad without the heavy carbs, this recipe is for you!
Swapping traditional pasta with chickpea orzo is a great way to add protein to dishes for a more balanced meal.
Chickpeas are probably best known as the main ingredient in hummus or added to a salad. But there are many ways to enjoy this nutrient-dense vegetable.
Health benefits of chickpeas
Chickpeas are classified as a legume and many old and new studies support the overall benefits of adding these to your diet.
Heart Health – Eating legumes such as chickpeas contain fiber and polyphenol plant compounds that can help lower the risk of heart disease. Legumes can be eaten alone as a stand-alone dish. However, swapping traditional foods for legume-based foods is a great way to sneak more protein and fiber into your diet.
Blood Sugar – Maintaining a healthy blood sugar can help lower your risk of type 2 diabetes. Consuming fiber and protein foods helps slow digestion and the release of sugar into the bloodstream.
Traditional wheat pasta can spike your blood sugar. While chickpea pasta can help maintain a healthy even blood sugar level.
Healthy Digestion – Fiber-rich foods can contain insoluble and soluble fiber, which both help aid digestion. Chickpeas are high in soluble fiber which attracts water forming a gel and helping slow digestion.
Healthy Weight – The fiber and protein in chickpeas help slow digestion and maintain a healthy blood sugar level making you feel full longer. Also, without the sugar spikes you will be less likely to binge eat.
Favorite ingredients
Greek Chickpea Orzo Salad
Course: SidesDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes12
minutes15
minutesSwapping traditional pasta for chickpea orzo pasta creates a delightfully decadent side dish that pairs nicely with chicken or fish. This 15-minute dish is nutrient-dense with lots of protein and fiber. You may want to make a little extra for lunch the next day! Enjoy!
Ingredients
1/2 container fresh cherry tomatoes
1 cucumber sliced and quartered
2.5 oz. sliced black olives
1 cup chickpea orzo
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 Tbsp. oregano
1 Tbsp. parsley
1 tsp. basil
Pinch of sea salt
Pinch of black pepper
2 Tbsp. Greek Vinaigrette
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of chickpea orzo pasta and cook for 9-12 minutes or until pasta is tender. Drain and let cool.
- While the pasta is cooking, slice and quarter cucumber, and slice cherry tomatoes in half. Drain black olives.
- In a medium serving bowl, add cucumber, tomatoes, black olives, feta, chickpea orzo, seasonings, and vinaigrette. Toss until mixed.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve cold.
