Pin 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 has become a staple in my home especially during warm months when I want something light yet 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.
Pin This recipe always reminds me of family picnics and casual summer dinners which we cherish a lot together.
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 per serving, Total Fat: 16 g, Carbohydrates: 54 g, Protein: 15 g
Pin This hemp seed ranch pasta salad is an effortless and nourishing dish you will come back to again and again.