When the sun’s rays stretch longer and the days beckon for outdoor festivities, there’s nothing like a vibrant, refreshing pasta salad to complement the cheerful mood. Here’s a vegan twist to the classic summer dish that’s bound to be a hit at your next potluck or party. Presenting the Sun-Kissed Delight, a vegan summer pasta salad that’s as flavorful as it is colorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work great)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (color of your choice), diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup olives, sliced
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool down. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2. Chop the Veggies: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, chop the onion, and slice the olives and artichokes.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Mix It Up: Add the prepared vegetables, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and parsley to the cooled pasta. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Season: Taste the pasta salad and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Bring your Sun-Kissed Delight to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Why This Salad Rocks:

This vegan summer pasta salad isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes. The medley of colorful vegetables against the backdrop of pasta ensures your dish stands out on any table. It’s not only great for vegans but also for anyone looking to enjoy a light, refreshing, and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easily customizable – feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on what’s in season or your personal preference.

Perfect for Any Occasion:

Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a family reunion, or a casual get-together, the Sun-Kissed Delight is versatile and can be scaled up for large gatherings or made ahead for a week of delicious lunches. Its robust flavors improve with time, making it the perfect choice for those occasions when you need a dish that’s both practical and delightful.

Conclusion:

This vegan summer pasta salad embodies the essence of summer – fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. It’s a surefire way to bring a touch of sunshine to any meal, making it an ideal choice for potlucks, parties, or simply a nutritious addition to your meal rotation. Dive into the season with this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing Sun-Kissed Delight!