Zesty Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad

/ Vegan Recipes / By

Looking for a refreshing dish that combines vibrant flavors and a satisfying crunch? This Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad is a perfect option for any occasion. It’s not just another vegan recipe – it’s a delightful medley of textures and tastes that will impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

This salad is bursting with the bold flavors of Southwest cuisine, featuring colorful bell peppers, black beans, and a zesty lime dressing that ties it all together. It’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep for the week ahead. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a staple in your kitchen.

Delicious Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad Recipe

A colorful Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad with whole wheat pasta, tomatoes, corn, black beans, and avocado in a serving bowl.

The Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad is a hearty and nutritious dish that blends whole wheat pasta with fresh vegetables and a kick of spice. The combination of hearty black beans and crunchy vegetables creates a fulfilling salad that’s perfect for warm days or as a side dish for barbecues.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Combine: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
  5. Add Avocado: Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado.
  6. Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories: 320kcal
  • Fat: 14g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g