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Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad

Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad: A Flavor-Packed Summer Staple

Discover the delightful Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad, a quick and zesty dish perfect for summer gatherings!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 330

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Whole Wheat Pasta substitute with preferred pasta shape
  • 1 cup Cherry/Grape Tomatoes can use regular tomatoes
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper yellow or orange peppers for variation
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion green onions can be milder substitute
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro or parsley as an alternative
  • 1 cup Fire-Roasted Corn or frozen corn for convenience
  • 1 can Black Beans drained and rinsed
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Raw Cashews soaked in water
  • 1/4 cup Lime Juice or lemon juice as substitute
  • 2 cloves Garlic fresh is best
  • 1 can Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce for a smoky kick
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder adjust to taste preference
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin omit if preferred
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika regular paprika is milder
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • blender
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a blender, combine the soaked raw cashews, water, lime juice, garlic, chipotle peppers, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, minced cilantro, drained black beans, and fire-roasted corn. Gently toss to combine.
  4. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad and toss until well coated. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  5. When ready to serve, give it a final toss, taste to adjust seasonings, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 330kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 350mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best taste, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for optimal crunch and flavor.

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