Here’s a list of all the ingredients for a **vegan Italian tomato and pasta salad**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help you rank better for related searches:
- **Pasta**: 12 oz (340g) of your favorite vegan pasta (e.g., penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
- **Cherry tomatoes**: 2 cups, halved (use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor)
- **Fresh basil**: 1/2 cup, chopped (adds a classic Italian herb flavor)
- **Garlic**: 2 cloves, minced (for a bold, savory kick)
- **Dried oregano**: 1 tsp (enhances the Italian seasoning profile)
- **Salt**: 1 tsp (to taste)
- **Black pepper**: 1/2 tsp (freshly ground for best flavor)
- **Vegan Parmesan cheese**: 1/4 cup, grated (optional, for a cheesy finish)
- **Red pepper flakes**: 1/4 tsp (optional, for a hint of spice)
This **vegan Italian pasta salad** is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a light meal. It’s packed with fresh, plant-based ingredients and bursting with Mediterranean flavors!
Steps
# How to Make a Vegan Italian Tomato and Pasta Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
Craving a fresh, flavorful, and plant-based dish? This **vegan Italian tomato and pasta salad** is the perfect choice! Packed with vibrant ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare, healthy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious salad that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
---
## **Ingredients for Vegan Italian Tomato and Pasta Salad**
- 250g (8 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Vegan feta cheese or nutritional yeast for topping
---
## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
### **Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables**
1. While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
2. Finely chop the fresh basil and parsley for added flavor and garnish.
### **Step 3: Make the Dressing**
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the acidity or sweetness as needed.
### **Step 4: Assemble the Salad**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
3. Add the chopped basil and parsley, and mix again.
### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
1. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates.
2. For extra flavor, sprinkle with crumbled vegan feta cheese or a dusting of nutritional yeast.
3. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
---
## **Tips for the Perfect Vegan Pasta Salad**
- **Pasta Choice:** Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- **Make Ahead:** This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- **Add Protein:** Include chickpeas, white beans, or marinated tofu for a protein boost.
- **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
---
This **vegan Italian tomato and pasta salad** is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal. With its fresh ingredients and zesty dressing, it’s a healthy, satisfying dish that’s sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy the taste of Italy in every bite!
**Keywords:** vegan pasta salad, Italian tomato pasta salad, vegan Italian salad, easy vegan recipes, healthy pasta salad, Mediterranean vegan dishes, plant-based pasta salad.