Roasted Broccoli and Chickpea Lemon Thyme Macaroni Salad
This refreshing Mediterranean pasta salad combines roasted broccoli, nutty chickpeas, and tender macaroni tossed in a light lemon-thyme dressing. It’s creamy yet vibrant, making it perfect as a side dish for picnics or a satisfying vegetarian main.
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 25 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the salad:
2 cups broccoli florets (about 1 small head)
1 can (15 oz / 400 g) chickpeas, drained & rinsed
8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni (or small pasta of choice)
2 tbsp olive oil (for roasting)
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the lemon-thyme dressing:
⅓ cup Greek yogurt (or mayo for creamier)
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice (plus zest of 1 lemon)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, grated
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional mix-ins & toppings:
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds
Instructions
1. Roast the broccoli & chickpeas
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss broccoli and chickpeas with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet and roast 20–25 minutes, until golden and slightly crisp.
2. Cook the pasta
Meanwhile, cook macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
3. Make the dressing
In a bowl or jar, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, zest, Dijon, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Assemble the salad
In a large bowl, combine macaroni, roasted broccoli, and chickpeas.
Add optional tomatoes, onion, and feta.
Toss with dressing until well coated.
5. Serve
Garnish with fresh thyme and toasted nuts or seeds.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes & Tips
For a creamier salad, use ½ Greek yogurt + ½ mayo.
Add baby spinach or arugula for freshness.
Keeps 3 days in the fridge (flavors improve overnight).
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes — use gluten-free pasta or even quinoa.
Q: Can I serve it warm?
Yes — just skip rinsing the pasta and toss everything together while warm.
Q: What protein can I add?
Grilled chicken, salmon, or boiled eggs pair beautifully.
Nutrition information
Calories: ~310 kcal
Protein: 11 g
Carbs: 45 g
Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 7 g