Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying? Our Quick Vegan Pasta Salad is the perfect solution! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant dish bursting with fresh vegetables and zesty flavors, making it an ideal choice for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic. With its colorful ingredients and simple preparation, this pasta salad will not only tantalize your taste buds but also impress your guests. Don't miss out on discovering how to create this delightful vegan masterpiece that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of pasta of your choice. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Rinse the 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Dice the cucumber and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Slice the 1/4 cup of olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This will be your dressing.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the pasta to cool for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, and sliced olives. Toss gently to combine.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss again to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
- Transfer the pasta salad to a serving dish and garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy your quick vegan pasta salad!
Tips
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: While any pasta works, opt for whole grain or gluten-free varieties for a healthier twist.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, carrots, or even avocado, to personalize your salad.
- Chill for Flavor: For the best taste, let your pasta salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Make It a Meal: Add some protein like chickpeas or tofu to turn this salad into a more filling main dish.
- Dress It Up: Experiment with different dressings or herbs to find your perfect flavor combination. A squeeze of lemon juice can add a refreshing zing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
