This Easy 6-ingredient Vegan Pesto Pasta Salad is the ultimate fresh and vibrant dish! It’s light yet satisfying, bursting with bold flavors from herby vegan pesto, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and peppery arugula.
Whether you need a quick meal prep option, a refreshing summer side dish, or something easy to bring to a picnic, this pasta salad has you covered.
With just six simple ingredients, you get a dish that’s both wholesome and packed with flavor. The pasta provides the perfect base, while the creamy pesto clings to every bite.
The peas add a touch of natural sweetness, the sun-dried tomatoes bring a punch of umami, and the cucumber adds a refreshing crunch. And let’s not forget the arugula—it gives just the right amount of peppery bite to balance everything out.
What I love most about this pasta salad is how effortless it is to throw together. You can serve it warm, at room temperature, or straight from the fridge.
Why You Will Be Hooked?
- Just six ingredients! No complicated prep—just cook, toss, and enjoy.
- Quick & easy: Ready in under 25 minutes!
- Versatile & meal-prep friendly: Enjoy it fresh or store it for an easy grab-and-go meal.
- Packed with flavor: Herby, garlicky pesto + tangy sun-dried tomatoes = a perfect combo.
- Customizable: Add chickpeas, avocado, or roasted veggies for extra goodness.
Easy 6-Ingredient Vegan Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Strainer
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 16 ounces penne pasta or rotini
- ¾ cup vegan pesto
- 1 cup baby arugula
- 1 cup peas
- ½ cup sundried tomatoes
- 1 large cucumber chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the pasta with vegan pesto, arugula, peas, sundried tomatoes, and chopped cucumber.
- Serve & Store: Enjoy cold! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 225kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Fibre | 3g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Sugar | 4g |
Variations that Will Help You Customize This Dish!
Here are some expert-level variations to elevate this vegan pasta salad beyond the basics:
Boosting Flavor Depth
- Charred Vegetables – Grill or roast the sundried tomatoes, cucumbers, or even some bell peppers for a smoky contrast.
- Preserved Lemon – Finely chop and mix in for a bright, tangy kick that enhances the pesto.
- Toasted Nuts or Seeds – Pine nuts, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds add crunch and a nutty undertone.
Playing with Texture
- Crispy Chickpeas – Roast chickpeas with smoked paprika and toss them in for a satisfying crunch.
- Shaved Fennel – Adds a subtle anise flavor and delicate crispness.
Upgrading the Creaminess
- Whipped Cashew Cheese – A spoonful mixed in adds a creamy, tangy balance.
- Avocado Chunks – Diced and folded in for a buttery texture.
Adding a Protein Boost
- Marinated Tofu or Tempeh – Cubes of balsamic-glazed tofu add heartiness.
- White Beans – Cannellini beans bring a creamy bite without overpowering the flavors.
Joe Miller is the passionate founder of Food Landscape Insight, where he shares his love for cooking and culinary experiences. Growing up in a family-run diner, Joe was immersed in the vibrant world of food from an early age. The kitchen became his canvas, and food, his way of storytelling.
Through years of experimentation and learning, Joe honed his skills and started his blog to inspire others to embrace the joy of cooking. Each recipe he shares is a blend of tradition, creativity, and the heartfelt memories that food brings to life, all with the aim of fostering a deeper connection to food.
