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Basil Pesto Pasta Salad

Basil Pesto Pasta Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Totally Vegan

This Basil Pesto Pasta Salad combines zesty flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it a delightful gluten-free and vegan dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Short-Grain Pasta (Penne, Rotini, or Conchiglie) Use gluten-free or chickpea pasta for dietary needs.
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth Opt for low-sodium if preferred.
  • 2 cups Water Hydrates the pasta during cooking.
For the Dressing
  • 6 ounces Basil Pesto Choose a dairy-free pesto for vegan options.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Feel free to substitute fresh garlic.
For the Mix-Ins
  • 0.25 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes In oil for sweet and tangy notes.
  • 2 tablespoons Nutritional Yeast Adds cheesy flavor without dairy.
  • 12 ounces Artichoke Hearts Drained, for unique texture.
  • 1 cup Diced Tomatoes or Cherry Tomatoes Optional for added freshness.
  • 2 tablespoons Capers Optional for a briny flavor.
  • Tuna Optional, added just before serving.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, combine 4 cups of vegetable broth, 2 cups of water, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Bring this mixture to a vigorous simmer.
  2. Add 8 ounces of your chosen short-grain pasta. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the pasta is tender.
  3. Once cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast, 6 ounces of basil pesto, and ¼ cup of sun-dried tomatoes. Mix thoroughly.
  4. Gently fold in 12 ounces of drained artichoke hearts, 1 cup of diced tomatoes, and 2 tablespoons of capers.
  5. Allow the salad to cool down. Transfer to a serving bowl or an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  6. When ready to serve, top off with optional canned tuna for added protein.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Good for meal prep and stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.

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