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Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad

Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Make-Ahead Delight

Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish featuring fresh ingredients and a creamy cashew dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Southwestern, Vegan
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces whole wheat pasta can swap for gluten-free pasta if desired
For the Fresh Vegetables
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved; can substitute with diced regular tomatoes
  • 1 medium red bell pepper can use green bell pepper as an alternative
  • 1 medium red onion yellow onion will work but is milder
  • 1/4 cup cilantro can substitute with parsley for a lighter flavor
For Protein and Fiber
  • 1 can black beans drained and rinsed; can use kidney beans or chickpeas
  • 1 cup fire-roasted corn frozen or fresh corn works well
For Flavor Enhancement
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt sea salt is a great alternative
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic or use garlic powder if fresh is not available
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup raw cashews can substitute with soaked silken tofu for a nut-free version
  • 1/4 cup lime juice lemon juice can be a solid alternative
  • 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce smoked paprika combined with hot sauce works too
For Spice & Depth
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder adjust to fit your spice preference
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin perfect for complementing southwestern flavors
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika monitor spice levels according to taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • high-speed blender
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down.
  2. In a high-speed blender, combine raw cashews, fresh water, lime juice, garlic, chipotle peppers, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of kosher salt. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro. Drain and rinse the black beans, and add them along with the fire-roasted corn. Toss in the cooled pasta to combine.
  4. Pour the creamy cashew dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper.
  5. Serve immediately or let it sit for at least an hour in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld. This dish can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 12gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Blend cashews smoothly; customize spice levels; make ahead for better flavor; use fresh vegetables; stir before serving.

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