Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to fire up your grill, head outdoors, and indulge in refreshing, flavorful dishes that are sure to become new favorites. One of our go-to summer staples? Vegan pasta salads! Not only do they provide a satisfying and filling meal, but they’re also incredibly easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 delicious and varied vegan pasta salad recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and keep you cool during the dog days of summer.
From Mediterranean-inspired chickpea salads to spicy peanut noodles and everything in between, we’ve got you covered with these mouth-watering creations. So grab a fork, get ready to dig in, and let’s explore the world of vegan pasta salad recipes together!
Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the best of Mediterranean cuisine with the comfort of pasta. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. whole wheat pasta
– 1 can chickpeas (15.5 oz.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Lime Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. With its light and zesty flavor profile, you’ll love this twist on traditional pasta salads!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked pasta, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro (if using) to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with additional lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. With its medley of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sun-dried tomatoes, basil leaves, and olive oil.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with tomato-basil mixture.
4. Drizzle vinegar over the salad and season with salt and pepper.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad
Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad: A Delicious Twist on Classic Pasta Salad
This Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional pasta salad. By roasting the vegetables, you’ll bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 medium bell pepper
– 1 small red onion
– 2 cloves garlic
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss zucchinis, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, garlic, parsley, feta cheese (if using), vinegar, and mustard.
6. Toss to combine and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and refreshing Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad! Perfect as a light meal or a healthy snack, this recipe combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the spiciness of chili flakes and crunchy noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili flakes until smooth.
3. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss until well coated with the peanut sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek-Inspired Orzo Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the creamy flavors of Greece with the nutty taste of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked orzo, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Lemon Garlic Pasta Salad combines the tanginess of lemon with the pungency of garlic for a flavorful and healthy side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kale and Quinoa Pasta Salad
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa pasta with the earthy taste of kale, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal or snack. With its mix of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz quinoa pasta
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, massage chopped kale with olive oil and apple cider vinegar until tender.
3. Add cooked quinoa pasta, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai-Inspired Peanut Pasta Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the comfort of pasta with the bold flavors of Thailand. This dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the cooked pasta, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped peanuts and scallions (if desired) before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (cooking pasta) + chilling time
Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the creamy flavor of pesto with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the simplicity of pasta, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. With its bright colors and tangy taste, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
3. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the pesto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Caprese-Style Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad brings together the flavors of Italy with a twist on the classic Caprese salad, featuring juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp. salt
– 1/4 tsp. black pepper
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the tomato mixture and toss again to coat.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Curried Pasta Salad with Raisins
This flavorful salad combines the warmth of curry powder with the sweetness of raisins, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. With its vibrant colors and intriguing flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots)
– 2 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 cup raisins
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and curry powder to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, and raisins in a large bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this sweet and tangy Balsamic Glazed Pasta Salad recipe! This refreshing dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of choice (e.g., bow tie, penne, or rotini)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and olive oil.
3. Add cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, and feta cheese to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Salad
This creamy pasta salad combines the flavors of spinach, artichoke hearts, and Parmesan cheese, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. With its colorful mix of green and red ingredients, this salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, spinach leaves, artichoke hearts, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the top, tossing to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad
A deliciously simple salad perfect for potlucks or a quick weeknight dinner, this BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad combines the flavors of grilled chicken, tangy ranch dressing, and sweet barbecue sauce with penne pasta and fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. penne pasta
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp. ranch seasoning
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or cook chicken breast in a skillet until cooked through. Shred into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and ranch seasoning. Mix well.
4. Add cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss until combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cucumber Dill Pasta Salad
Beat the heat with this light and zesty pasta salad that combines the coolness of cucumber, the tanginess of dill, and the comfort of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, chopped fresh dill, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the cucumber mixture and toss until the pasta is fully coated.
4. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking pasta)
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Salad
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Salad: A flavorful and colorful salad perfect for potlucks or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne)
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Roast the red bell peppers by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzling with olive oil, and roasting at 425°F for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Asian Sesame Noodle Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the nutty taste of sesame with the chewy texture of noodles, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 2 tbsp. sesame oil
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 2 tbsp. soy sauce
– 1 tsp. honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, scallions, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
3. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey until well combined.
5. Pour soy-honey mixture over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cool down this summer with these 18 delicious vegan pasta salad recipes! From Mediterranean-inspired chickpea salads to spicy peanut noodle dishes, there’s something for every taste bud. Try the Avocado Lime Pasta Salad for a creamy and refreshing twist, or go bold with the Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad. With flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, Thai peanuts, and balsamic glaze, you’ll never get bored. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a quick lunch. So go ahead, get creative, and make this summer a culinary delight!
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