Save to Pinterest 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 recipe quickly became a favorite in our home thanks to its fresh flavors and easy preparation.
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 to Pinterest Preparation is a family affair that brings everyone into the kitchen to chop and toss the fresh ingredients.
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 to Pinterest This versatile salad is perfect for a quick lunch and keeps well for several days in the fridge.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like fusilli, rotini, or penne holds the dressing well and provides a nice texture contrast with the vegetables.
- → How can I store this dish?
Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Chilling enhances the flavors and textures.
- → Can I make the dressing ahead?
Yes, the hemp seed dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for 2-3 days for convenience.
- → How to make it gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular pasta with certified gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → What adds extra protein to this dish?
Incorporate cooked chickpeas or white beans to boost the protein content while maintaining the plant-based profile.