Creamy Vegan Pasta Salad

This creamy vegan pasta salad is a warm-weather favorite—perfect for cookouts, picnics, or a simple weeknight side. It’s cool, refreshing, and packed with fresh veggies, tender pasta, and a creamy homemade Italian-inspired dressing. Best of all, it’s a budget-friendly meal you can make for under $20 to serve a family of four!

Grocery List (Approximate Prices)

• Rotini or elbow pasta (16 oz) – $2.00

• Cherry tomatoes (1 pint) – $3.00

• Cucumber (1) – $1.00

• Red onion (1 small) – $0.75

• Bell pepper (any color) – $1.25

• Vegan mayo (1 cup) – $4.00

• Apple cider vinegar (2 tbsp) – $0.50

• Italian seasoning (1 tsp) – $0.50

• Garlic powder (½ tsp) – $0.25

• Salt & pepper – pantry staples

Total: $13.25

📌 Grocery Price Disclaimer: Prices may vary based on your location. The prices listed reflect the amount needed for the recipe, not necessarily the full purchase price of each product.

Prep Time | 15 minutes

Cook Time | 10 minutes

Serving Size | Serves 4

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad:

• 16 oz rotini or elbow pasta

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cucumber, diced

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 bell pepper, diced

For the Creamy Italian Dressing:

• 1 cup vegan mayo

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool.

2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayo, apple cider vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until creamy and well combined.

3. Prep the Veggies: While pasta is cooling, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion, and dice the bell pepper.

4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped veggies, and creamy dressing. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend. Serve cold and enjoy!

Kitchen Tools Needed

✅ Large pot

✅ Colander

✅ Mixing bowls

✅ Whisk

✅ Cutting board & knife

✅ Measuring cups & spoons

This Creamy Vegan Pasta Salad is a spring and summer staple that never goes out of style. It’s easy to make, full of fresh ingredients, and the creamy tangy dressing ties it all together. Whether you’re planning a picnic, BBQ, or just a simple family dinner, this one’s a keeper! 🌱🍴

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