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Colorful Easy Tahini Veggie Pasta Salad with fresh vegetables and tahini dressing

Easy Veggie Pasta Salad with Tahini Dressing

This vibrant pasta salad combines colorful vegetables and a creamy tahini dressing for a healthy and satisfying dish, perfect for busy evenings or potlucks.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb cooked pasta of your choosing Colorful fusilli or classic penne work great.
  • 3/4 cup roasted chickpeas Adds protein and crunch.
  • 1 cup shredded raw carrots For crunch and sweetness.
  • 1 cup shredded raw red cabbage Rich in antioxidants and adds color.
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into small pieces Enhances flavor with its sweetness.
  • 1 handful freshly chopped cilantro Adds aromatic freshness.
Tahini Dressing Ingredients
  • 1/3 cup runny tahini Acts as the base for the dressing.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth Infuses the dressing with savory richness.
  • 1.5 small limes, juiced Provides bright acidity.
  • 1/2 tsp sriracha Adds a touch of heat.
  • 1 tbsp liquid aminos Gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast Adds a cheesy flavor and nutrients.
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard Adds tanginess.
  • 1/2 tbsp very finely minced garlic Enhances flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder Adds depth without overpowering.
Garnish
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro For garnishing.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add your pasta, and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and allow to cool.
  2. Combine the main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, roasted chickpeas, freshly chopped cilantro, shredded carrots, red cabbage, and red bell pepper. Toss gently to combine.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together tahini, vegetable broth, lime juice, sriracha, liquid aminos, nutritional yeast, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and onion powder until smooth.
  4. Combine and serve: Pour the tahini dressing over the salad, mixing well to coat all ingredients. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Storage
  1. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Notes

Feel free to customize veggies as per availability; you can also use Greek yogurt for creaminess. For added protein, consider grilled chicken or tofu.