Rainbow Pasta Salad

Pasta, veggies, beans, and olives are combined with a zesty dressing and seasonings.

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Introduction

Rainbow Pasta Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that combines the simplicity of cooked pasta with the crunch of fresh vegetables, the creaminess of white beans, and the tanginess of olives and pickled jalapeños. This recipe is elevated by a homemade dressing, a balanced blend of olive oil, lemon juice, mustard paste, vegan mayonnaise, and subtle sweetness from coconut sugar.

The salad's versatility is one of its strongest features. You can adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version, swap cannellini beans for chickpeas or black beans, or add leafy greens for an extra nutrient boost.

This dish is a great option for meal prep, as it tastes even better after chilling, allowing the flavors to meld. It’s also ideal for summer gatherings or potlucks, offering a light yet satisfying option that’s sure to please a crowd. However, it’s less suitable for freezing due to the textures of pasta and fresh vegetables.

Enjoy this pasta salad as a quick lunch, a side dish, or a stand-alone meal. The protein from beans makes it hearty enough to be a filling vegetarian main course, while its bright, zesty flavor profile keeps it refreshing and light.

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Prep Time

Cook Time

Servings

Calorie/Serving

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Let’s prepare salad dressing first. In a small jar, add extra virgin olive oil + lemon juice + mustard paste + minced garlic + vegan mayonnaise + coconut sugar + dried herbs + salt + pepper.
  2. Seal the jar. Shake well and mix everything until it’s well-combined and emulsified. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add cooked pasta + cucumbers + bell peppers + white beans + cherry tomatoes + olives + jalapeño.
  4. Pour in the salad dressing and mix well until everything is well-coated.
  5. Transfer to a serving bowl(s) and enjoy.

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Recipe Notes

  • Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
  • Substitute cannellini beans with chickpeas, kidney beans, or black beans.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer pickled jalapeños.
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be added for extra flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • The dressing can be prepared a day in advance for convenience.
  • Use whole-grain pasta for a healthier option.
  • Add leafy greens like spinach or arugula for more nutrition.
  • Avoid freezing as the texture of the pasta and vegetables will change.
  • Rinse the beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium if using canned beans.
  • Replace vegan mayonnaise with tahini or hummus for a different flavor.
  • Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, canned beans work well. Just rinse and drain them before use.

It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing is not recommended as the pasta and vegetables may become mushy.

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli holds the dressing well.

Use gluten-free pasta.

Yes, you can use tahini, hummus, or omit it for a lighter dressing.

Try zucchini, carrots, or red onions for added variety.

Yes, but you may want to reduce or omit the jalapeños for a milder flavor.

Absolutely! It can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

It pairs well with grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or a light soup.

Yes, cubed and pan-fried (or grilled) tofu or tempeh would be a great addition.

Fresh chili slices or roasted red peppers work as alternatives.

Nutritional Info (per Serving)

  • Calories: 471 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 57 g
  • Protein: 13 g
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Sodium: 630 mg
  • Potassium: 463 mg
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Vitamin A: 1680 IU
  • Vitamin C: 68 mg
  • Calcium: 96 mg
  • Iron: 4 mg

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