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Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad

Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad That Dances with Flavor

This Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad is a colorful, flavorful dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Vegan-friendly pasta can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
  • 1 can Black beans can swap with chickpeas or lentils
  • 1 cup Fire-roasted corn fresh or frozen corn can be used
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes can use diced regular tomatoes
  • 1 each Red bell pepper any color bell pepper will do
  • 1/2 medium Red onion green onions can be replaced for a milder flavor
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Cashews soaked beforehand for smoothness
  • 2 tablespoons Lime juice can use lemon juice if lime isn't available
  • 1 each Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce can use chili powder for milder flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder fresh garlic can serve as a substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin smoked paprika or coriander are good alternatives

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Blender or food processor
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add vegan-friendly pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine soaked cashews, lime juice, chipotle peppers, garlic powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Blend until completely smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix cooled pasta with black beans, fire-roasted corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped red bell pepper. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Fold in the Dressing: Drizzle the cashew dressing over the salad mixture. Fold gently to ensure everything is coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Toss before serving and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Soak cashews for a creamy dressing. Adjust spice level per preference and allow the salad to chill for optimal flavor development.

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