What type of pasta works best in this dish?

Short pasta varieties like fusilli, rotini, or penne are ideal as they hold the dressing well and blend nicely with the vegetables.

How should the hemp seed dressing be prepared?

Blend shelled hemp seeds with water, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Yes, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

Add chickpeas or white beans for protein, or try diced avocado or vegan feta for extra richness.

Use certified gluten-free pasta to make this salad gluten-free while maintaining its flavor and texture.

Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs for best presentation and taste.

A creamy, plant-based pasta salad featuring a tangy hemp seed ranch dressing, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta perfect for picnics or meal prep.

This pasta salad quickly became a staple in my kitchen especially during warm-weather gatherings and casual family meals.

Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (e.g., fusilli, rotini, or penne)
Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1 cup cucumber diced, 1 cup red bell pepper diced, 1/3 cup red onion finely chopped, 1/2 cup shredded carrot, 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
Hemp Seed Ranch Dressing: 1/2 cup shelled hemp seeds, 1/2 cup water, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 small garlic clove, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp dried dill, 1/2 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp dried chives, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (optional for richness)

Cook pasta:: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
Prepare vegetables:: While the pasta cooks prepare the vegetables and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Make dressing:: Blend hemp seeds water lemon juice apple cider vinegar garlic onion powder dried dill dried parsley dried chives salt black pepper and olive oil (if using) in a blender until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Combine salad:: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
Add parsley and chill:: Fold in the chopped fresh parsley. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Serve:: Serve cold or at room temperature. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.

A family favorite I love seeing how even picky eaters enjoy this wholesome salad together around the table.

Large pot colander large mixing bowl blender chef's knife and cutting board measuring cups and spoons

Contains hemp seeds (seed allergy) Naturally nut-free and dairy-free Check pasta packaging for gluten if gluten-sensitive

Calories 410 Total Fat 16 g Carbohydrates 54 g Protein 15 g per serving

This hemp seed ranch pasta salad is a refreshing and nutrient-packed dish that suits any occasion.

→ What type of pasta works best in this dish?: Short pasta varieties like fusilli, rotini, or penne are ideal as they hold the dressing well and blend nicely with the vegetables.
→ How should the hemp seed dressing be prepared?: Blend shelled hemp seeds with water, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?: Yes, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
→ Are there any suggested ingredient substitutions?: Add chickpeas or white beans for protein, or try diced avocado or vegan feta for extra richness.
→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?: Use certified gluten-free pasta to make this salad gluten-free while maintaining its flavor and texture.
→ How should the salad be served?: Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs for best presentation and taste.