Quick & Easy Pasta Salad

Quick & Easy Pasta Salad

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this Vegan Veggie Pasta Salad, tossed in a light and refreshing dressing for a delightful culinary experience. Packed with colorful veggies and wholesome pasta, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Here’s how to prepare it along with some additional tips for enhancing your salad:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup diced tomato
  • 1 cup diced cucumber
  • 1 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 2 and 3/4 cups Ronzoni Tricolor rotini (or any vegan pasta of your choice)
  • 1/2 cup Olive Garden Light Italian Dressing (or any vegan Italian dressing)
  • 1/2 cup sliced radishes

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package until it reaches your desired texture. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, tomato, cucumber, green bell pepper, and radishes.
  3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl of veggies.
  4. Pour the Olive Garden Light Italian Dressing over the salad ingredients.
  5. Toss everything together until the dressing evenly coats the veggies and pasta.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Here’s the approximate nutritional information for one cup serving of the Vegan Veggie Pasta Salad:

  • Calories: Around 120 kcal
  • Protein: Approximately 3 grams
  • Carbohydrates: Roughly 22 grams
  • Fiber: About 3 grams
  • Fat: Approximately 2 grams
  • Sodium: Around 150 milligrams

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes. Additionally, the nutritional content of the salad may be influenced by factors such as the amount of dressing used and any additional toppings or ingredients added.

Additional Recipe Tips:

  • Customization: Feel free to add or substitute any veggies of your choice, such as sliced olives, shredded carrots, or diced red onion, to suit your taste preferences.
  • Protein Boost: Incorporate protein-rich ingredients like cooked chickpeas, tofu cubes, or edamame to make this salad more filling and nutritious.
  • Make-Ahead: This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just give it a quick toss before serving to refresh the flavors.
  • Garnish Ideas: Garnish your salad with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and visual appeal.
  • Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this Vegan Veggie Pasta Salad as a side dish or light meal on its own. Pair it with some crusty bread or grilled tofu for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • Health Benefits: With its abundance of colorful veggies and whole grain pasta, this salad provides a variety of essential nutrients, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.

With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this Vegan Veggie Pasta Salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the goodness of wholesome ingredients and tangy dressing in every bite!