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Bowl of easy tahini veggie pasta salad with fresh vegetables and dressing

Easy Veggie Pasta Salad with Tahini Dressing

A vibrant medley of flavors, this Easy Veggie Pasta Salad with Tahini Dressing is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend lunches. It's a family-friendly dish that combines fresh ingredients with a creamy dressing, evoking comfort and nostalgia.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 1 lb cooked pasta of your choosing Opt for fusilli, penne, or bow-tie.
  • 3/4 cup roasted chickpeas Crispy and packed with protein.
  • 1 cup shredded raw carrots Adds sweetness and crunch.
  • 1 cup shredded raw red cabbage Adds color and texture.
  • 1 large red bell pepper Cut into small pieces for freshness.
  • handful freshly chopped cilantro Adds a refreshing touch.
Tahini Dressing
  • 1/3 cup runny tahini Creamy and rich.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth Helps emulsify the dressing.
  • Juice of 1.5 small limes lime juice Adds acidity.
  • 1/2 tsp sriracha For a dash of heat.
  • 1 tbsp liquid aminos An umami-rich alternative to soy sauce.
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast Adds cheesy, nutty flavor.
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard Brings tanginess.
  • 1/2 tbsp very finely minced garlic Adds warmth.
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder Enhances overall flavor.
Garnish
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro For an extra layer of freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package directions. Make sure to drain it well and allow it to cool down.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the roasted chickpeas, chopped cilantro, shredded carrots, shredded red cabbage, and diced red bell pepper.
Dressing
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the tahini, vegetable broth, lime juice, sriracha, liquid aminos, nutritional yeast, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and onion powder until well blended. Alternatively, you can use a food processor for a smoother consistency.
Combine
  1. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture, ensuring everything is generously coated.
  2. Mix well to combine, and serve the salad at room temperature.
  3. For optimal flavor, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Notes

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand. Adding grilled chicken or tofu can provide more protein, while sunflower seeds or nuts can add crunch.