What makes the dressing creamy?

Shelled hemp seeds blended with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and herbs create the creamy texture without dairy.

Can I substitute the pasta?

Yes, use any short pasta like fusilli, rotini, or penne; gluten-free pasta also works well.

It tastes best chilled to allow flavors to meld but can also be served at room temperature.

Add cooked chickpeas or white beans to increase protein and improve texture.

This dish is naturally nut-free but contains hemp seeds; check for allergies accordingly.

Dried dill, parsley, and chives in the dressing, plus fresh parsley folded in, add bright herbal notes.

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 recipe quickly became my go-to summer dish because it’s fresh, satisfying, and easy to make in advance.

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)

Step 1:: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
Step 2:: While the pasta cooks prepare the vegetables and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3:: For the hemp seed ranch 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.
Step 4:: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
Step 5:: Fold in the chopped fresh parsley. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Step 6:: Serve cold or at room temperature. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.

This dish quickly became a family favorite especially during summer cookouts and gatherings.

Large pot Colander Large mixing bowl Blender Chefs 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 refreshing vegan salad is perfect for warm days and easy to customize to your taste.

→ What makes the dressing creamy?: Shelled hemp seeds blended with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and herbs create the creamy texture without dairy.
→ Can I substitute the pasta?: Yes, use any short pasta like fusilli, rotini, or penne; gluten-free pasta also works well.
→ Is this dish best served chilled or room temperature?: It tastes best chilled to allow flavors to meld but can also be served at room temperature.
→ How can I add more protein?: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans to increase protein and improve texture.
→ Are there nut allergens in this dish?: This dish is naturally nut-free but contains hemp seeds; check for allergies accordingly.
→ What herbs enhance the flavor?: Dried dill, parsley, and chives in the dressing, plus fresh parsley folded in, add bright herbal notes.