Description
A refreshing and vibrant Vegan Pasta Salad Delight that combines Mediterranean flavors with a variety of fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of fusilli pasta
- 1 cup of grape tomatoes, quartered
- 1 cup of diced zucchini
- 1 cup of diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup of green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup of kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil, torn
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of whole grain mustard
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by boiling the fusilli pasta in salted water until it reaches a firm yet tender texture. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Place it in a large bowl to cool completely.
- In another bowl, mix together the grape tomatoes, zucchini, red bell pepper, green onions, kalamata olives, and fresh basil. Stir until the vegetables are evenly distributed.
- In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, whole grain mustard, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
- Once the pasta is cool, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently fold everything together until the pasta and veggies are coated in the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and harmonize.
- Serve chilled, garnished with additional basil if desired, and savor the vibrant flavors!
Notes
- For a protein boost, add in some grilled chickpeas or edamame.
- Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like asparagus or cherry peppers for a fresh twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Chilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg