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 its fresh flavors and easy prep time.
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 salad is a regular at our family picnics where everyone loves the refreshing flavors and creamy dressing.
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 vegan hemp seed ranch pasta salad is a healthy and delicious choice any day of the week.
Recipe FAQ
- → What makes the hemp seed dressing creamy?
The dressing achieves its creamy texture by blending shelled hemp seeds with water, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and herbs until smooth and rich.
- → Can this salad be prepared in advance?
Yes, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld, making it ideal for meal prep or picnics.
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne hold the dressing well and provide the perfect texture.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely, by substituting regular pasta with certified gluten-free options, the dish remains gluten-free without compromising taste.
- → How can I add more protein to this dish?
Incorporate cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra plant-based protein without altering the flavor balance.