What types of pasta work best?

Short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne hold the dressing well and create a pleasant texture contrast.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.

The hemp seeds blend with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and herbs to create a smooth, creamy, and tangy dressing.

Adding cooked chickpeas or white beans provides extra protein without altering the fresh flavor profile.

Yes, substituting regular pasta for certified gluten-free options keeps it friendly for gluten-sensitive diets.

Fresh parsley folded in at the end and dried herbs in the dressing boost the dish's fresh and aromatic notes.

A creamy, plant-based pasta salad featuring a tangy hemp seed ranch dressing, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta perfect for picnics or meal prep.

This salad quickly became a favorite in my household due to its fresh flavors and easy preparation.

Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (e.g. fusilli, rotini or penne)
Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1 cup cucumber diced, 1 cup red bell pepper diced, 1/3 cup red onion finely chopped, 1/2 cup shredded carrot, 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
Hemp Seed Ranch Dressing: 1/2 cup shelled hemp seeds, 1/2 cup water, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 small garlic clove, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp dried dill, 1/2 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp dried chives, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (optional for richness)

Step 1:: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
Step 2:: While the pasta cooks prepare the vegetables and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3:: For the hemp seed ranch dressing blend hemp seeds water lemon juice apple cider vinegar garlic onion powder dried dill dried parsley dried chives salt black pepper and olive oil (if using) in a blender until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 4:: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
Step 5:: Fold in the chopped fresh parsley. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Step 6:: Serve cold or at room temperature. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.

This recipe always brings my family together especially during warm summer days spent outside.

Large pot, colander, large mixing bowl, blender, chefs knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons

Contains hemp seeds (seed allergy). Naturally nut-free and dairy-free. Check pasta packaging for gluten if gluten-sensitive.

Per serving: Calories 410, Total Fat 16 g, Carbohydrates 54 g, Protein 15 g

This vegan hemp seed ranch pasta salad is both nutritious and delicious ready for any occasion.

→ What types of pasta work best?: Short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne hold the dressing well and create a pleasant texture contrast.
→ Can I prepare this in advance?: Yes, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
→ How is the dressing made creamy without dairy?: The hemp seeds blend with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and herbs to create a smooth, creamy, and tangy dressing.
→ Are there protein additions that complement the dish?: Adding cooked chickpeas or white beans provides extra protein without altering the fresh flavor profile.
→ Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?: Yes, substituting regular pasta for certified gluten-free options keeps it friendly for gluten-sensitive diets.
→ What herbs enhance the salad’s flavor?: Fresh parsley folded in at the end and dried herbs in the dressing boost the dish's fresh and aromatic notes.