How can I prevent the pasta from getting mushy in this salad?

Cook the pasta according to package directions, ensuring it's not overcooked, then drain and rinse immediately in cool water to stop the cooking process.

Can I substitute ingredients if I don't like olives in this recipe?

Yes, if you don't like kalamata olives, you can substitute them with sun-dried tomatoes as suggested in the recipe.

How long should the salad chill before serving to ensure the best flavor?

The salad should chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors from the dressing and vegetables to blend thoroughly before serving.

How long does this Italian pasta salad last in the refrigerator?

This pasta salad will keep well refrigerated for 5 to 7 days when covered, making it great for meal prep.

What kind of pasta works best for this cold salad?

The recipe calls for 12 ounces of your pasta of choice; ensure it's a shape that holds up well and isn't overcooked for the best texture in a cold salad.

5 years ago

Simple Italian Pasta Salad
[Vegan]

PP By: Planted and Picked

Author Bio

Sandra and Scott spend a lot of time and energy building plant-based staple meals that... Read More

Build your own custom collections — save, add notes, customize and print!

Order with Instacart Download Our App

simple-italian-pasta-salad-recipe-plantedandpicked-2-681x1024-3

For brands

Want to reach our audience?

Partner with One Green Planet →Not a brand? join our membership!

Discover more recipes with these ingredients

Pasta

Simple Italian Pasta Salad

Dairy Free

Vegan

This Simple Italian Pasta Salad is a great go-to salad and common meal prep item all year round. It’s simple and it’s fabulous for lunch or as a side. It is also great to bring along to a potluck or a picnic.

Ingredients You Need for Simple Italian Pasta Salad [Vegan]

For the Pasta Salad:

12 ounces pasta
2 sweet peppers, seeded and dice (feel free to use 1 red and 1 yellow)
1/2 cup red onion, diced
2 cups spinach, packed
1 cup kalamata olives, pitted 240 (sub sun-dried tomatoes if you don't like olives)
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, quartered (about 2 cups)

For the Dressing:

1/3 cup good quality olive oil
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
2 large garlic cloves, peeled and minced
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon tamari
1 tablespoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed chilis 1 (optional)

Build your own custom collections — save, add notes, customize and print!

Order with Instacart Download Our App

How to Prepare Simple Italian Pasta Salad [Vegan]

Cook your pasta of choice according to the directions on the package. Make sure the pasta isn't overcooked or it will fall apart in the salad.
Drain and rinse the pasta in cool water to stop the cooking process.
Prep the veggies. Remove the stems from the spinach and roughly chop to measure about 2 cups packed.
Place all the ingredients for the dressing in a large bowl and whisk together.
Add the pasta to the bowl and stir. Add all the vegetables and stir again.
Cover and let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours so that the flavors blend. Stir again before serving.
This salad will keep well refrigerated for 5 to 7 days but it won't last that long!