Elevate Your Mealtime with Vegan Rotini Pasta Salad

Introduction:

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Vegan Rotini Pasta Salad, a refreshing and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, packing a picnic, or simply craving a satisfying meal, this salad is sure to delight your taste buds. Packed with colorful vegetables, protein-rich beans, and flavorful herbs, this recipe offers a wholesome and delicious alternative to traditional pasta salads. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this delectable dish, along with nutritional information and Smart WW Points to help you make informed choices about your meals.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced (assorted colors)
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave nectar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and herbs as specified in the ingredients list. Add them to the bowl with the cooked pasta.
  3. Add Beans and Olives: Add the black olives and canned chickpeas to the bowl with the pasta and vegetables. These ingredients will add protein and texture to the salad.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, maple syrup or agave nectar, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
  5. Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables in the mixing bowl. Gently toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
  6. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  7. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish the Vegan Rotini Pasta Salad with additional fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley and basil, for a burst of color and flavor. Serve chilled and enjoy as a main dish or side salad.

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 7g

Smart WW Points:

  • Each serving of Vegan Rotini Pasta Salad is approximately 7 Smart WW Points, based on the ingredients used and serving size.

Conclusion:

With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and nutritious ingredients, Vegan Rotini Pasta Salad is a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, side dish, or potluck contribution, this salad is sure to please vegans and non-vegans alike. Try this recipe today and savor the deliciousness of plant-based eating!