Chickpea Antipasto Salad

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This Chickpea Antipasto Salad is a bold, flavor-packed dish ideal for potlucks or picnics. It's hearty enough to enjoy on its own when you need a quick, fuss-free meal.

Spoon in a serving bowl with chickpea salad on a blue linen napkin.

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This Chickpea Antipasto Salad resembles an antipasto platter in a bowl. With little more effort than opening jars, the bold flavors of a classic appetizer are turned into a side dish, much like this Mediterranean Salad with Chickpeas and Olives.

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Why you will love this
Ingredient notes
Substitutions or additions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Serving and storing
Recipe FAQs
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📖 Recipe Card
💬 Comments

Why you will love this

Every ingredient brings bold flavor.
Only minimal prep is needed. Opening jars and slicing ingredients is as difficult as this recipe gets!
Swap ingredients in or out to customize with your favorite antipasto flavors.
Interchangeable as an appetizer or a side dish.

Ingredient notes

Ingredients for chickpea antipasto salad.

Olives - Kalamata olives add briny flavor, and Castelvetrano olives have a meaty texture and incredible buttery flavor.
Pepperoni - Turkey pepperoni balances the rich flavor of the salami and olives. Any variety of pepperoni can be used.
Sun-dried tomatoes - I prefer oil-packed for more pronounced flavor and extra moisture. I love both Mezzetta and DeLallo . If using the water-packed variety, add a little extra dressing.
Artichoke hearts - I use canned, quartered artichokes. For larger artichokes, cut the quarters in half.
Parmesan - Start with a wedge of good-quality Parm and break into small pieces.
Italian dressing - For ease, use your favorite store-bought dressing. Otherwise, a simple blend of oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano is also delicious.
Basil - Fresh basil adds tremendous flavor. Parsley is also a great option.

Substitutions or additions

This salad can easily be customized with other antipasto ingredients, such as:

Banana peppers
Soppressata or other Italian meats
Mozzarella balls, Feta, or Romano cheese
Marinated mushrooms

Step-by-Step Instructions

See the recipe card for complete instructions and ingredient amounts.

Salad ingredients added to a mixing bowl.

Step 1: Add all of the ingredients (except the dressing) to a mixing bowl.

Ingredients tossed together in a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add the dressing and toss to combine. Garnish with basil and serve.

Side view of antipasto salad in a serving bowl on a blue napkin.

Serving and storing

This salad can be served by itself for lunch or as a side dish. It can also be served with sandwiches or grilled favorites such as burgers, chicken, or steak.
This salad can also be enjoyed as an appetizer. Serve with crackers or slices of baguette, or add it to a charcuterie platter.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make antipasto chickpea salad ahead of time?

This salad keeps well. If making ahead, wait until right before serving to add the basil to keep it as fresh as possible.

What is antipasto salad made of?

Antipasto usually includes a variety of cured meats and cheeses, marinated veggies such as artichoke hearts or mushrooms, and olives. You can use a variety of ingredients based on what you love and have on hand.