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 salad quickly became a favorite at family gatherings because it’s both healthy and satisfying.
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 dish always brings smiles to our family picnics and has become a lunchbox favorite for all ages.
Notes
Add 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein. Try adding diced avocado or vegan feta for a twist. For gluten-free use certified gluten-free pasta.
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.
Save This vegan hemp seed ranch pasta salad is simple to make and sure to impress with its fresh flavors.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What ingredients create the hemp seed ranch dressing?
The dressing blends shelled hemp seeds, water, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, onion powder, dried dill, parsley, chives, salt, black pepper, and olive oil for creaminess.
- → Can I use different pasta shapes in this dish?
Yes, short pastas like fusilli, rotini, or penne work well and hold the dressing nicely.
- → How should the salad be served for best flavor?
Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes enhances the melded flavors, but it can also be served at room temperature.
- → Are there suggestions to increase protein content?
Add cooked chickpeas or white beans to boost protein while keeping the dish plant-based.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets?
Use certified gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-sensitive friendly.