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Kale Caesar Pasta Salad with Crispy Chickpeas Recipe

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4.3 from 8 reviews

A refreshing and nutritious Kale Caesar Pasta Salad combining gluten-free pasta, crispy roasted chickpeas, fresh kale, and a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. This salad is perfect for a hearty lunch or a light dinner, packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Salad

  • 8 ounces gluten free pasta
  • 5 cups de-stemmed and chopped kale
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan
  • 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons grated parmesan
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the chickpeas.
  3. Prepare Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Spread them on a dish towel or paper towels and rub between two towels to remove excess moisture and any loose skins, discarding the skins.
  4. Toss Chickpeas with Oil and Spices: Place the dried chickpeas in a bowl; toss with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until evenly coated.
  5. Bake Chickpeas: Spread the seasoned chickpeas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Prepare Kale: Remove the stems from the kale leaves and chop into small pieces. Rinse under cold water using a strainer, then massage the kale with your hands to soften it. Dry thoroughly using towels before transferring to a large salad bowl.
  7. Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, grated parmesan, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
  8. Combine Salad Ingredients: When pasta and chickpeas are cooled, add them to the bowl with the massaged kale. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup grated parmesan, then drizzle with the prepared dressing.
  9. Toss and Serve: Toss all ingredients together gently until everything is evenly coated with dressing. Serve immediately and enjoy your Kale Caesar Pasta Salad!

Notes

  • Remove chickpea skins thoroughly to ensure crispiness when roasted.
  • Massage the kale leaves well to soften their texture and reduce bitterness.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to keep the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • The salad is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Adjust seasoning in the dressing to taste, especially the salt and lemon juice.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free