Save A creamy, plant-based pasta salad featuring a tangy hemp seed ranch dressing, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta perfect for picnics or meal prep.
This pasta salad quickly became a favorite in my household for summer gatherings and packed lunches
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (e.g., fusilli, rotini, or penne)
- Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1 cup cucumber diced, 1 cup red bell pepper diced, 1/3 cup red onion finely chopped, 1/2 cup shredded carrot, 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Hemp Seed Ranch Dressing: 1/2 cup shelled hemp seeds, 1/2 cup water, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 small garlic clove, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp dried dill, 1/2 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp dried chives, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (optional for richness)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Step 3:
- For the hemp seed ranch dressing blend hemp seeds water lemon juice apple cider vinegar garlic onion powder dried dill dried parsley dried chives salt black pepper and olive oil (if using) in a blender until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 4:
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Step 5:
- Fold in the chopped fresh parsley. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Step 6:
- Serve cold or at room temperature. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.
Save This recipe has brought many family picnics to life and quickly became a go-to for easy weeknight dinners
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, large mixing bowl, blender, chefs knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains hemp seeds (seed allergy). Naturally nut-free and dairy-free. Check pasta packaging for gluten if gluten-sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 410, Total Fat: 16 g, Carbohydrates: 54 g, Protein: 15 g per serving
Save This pasta salad is a refreshing and wholesome dish perfect for any occasion
Recipe Guide
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne hold the dressing well and provide a pleasing texture.
- → Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, blending the hemp seed dressing ahead helps flavors meld and speeds up assembly before serving.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep the salad refrigerated in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- → Are there alternatives for extra protein?
Adding cooked chickpeas or white beans enhances protein without altering the creamy texture.
- → Is it suitable for gluten-free diets?
Using certified gluten-free pasta ensures the dish accommodates gluten sensitivities.