Lemon Tahini Pasta Salad

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Lemon Tahini Pasta Salad contains pasta shells and chickpeas tossed in a lemony tahini dressing sweetened with honey. It is then surrounded by tasty vegetables like cucumbers, grated carrots, cherry tomatoes, peppers, and red onion, with crumbled feta cheese.

Can you imagine anything else to eat on a hot summer day? This will become a popular side dish the whole family will enjoy!

While salad with lemon tahini dressing is traditionally served as a summer salad, this particular recipe is so amazing that you’ll enjoy it year-round!

This Lemon Tahini Pasta Salad recipe is so mouth-watering that you won’t want to make pasta salad any other way.

Reasons why you'll love this Lemon Tahini Pasta Salad

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy days. It can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick lunch or a side dish at dinner.
2. Packed with Nutrients: This salad is loaded with fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, offering a rainbow of vitamins and minerals. Plus, chickpeas add a boost of plant-based protein and fiber.
3. Versatile and Customizable: You can easily swap out the veggies for whatever you have on hand or add some grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein. It’s a flexible recipe that adapts to your taste and pantry.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep: This pasta salad keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Prepare it ahead of time, and you’ll have a delicious, ready-to-eat meal waiting for you throughout the week.
5. Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is a fantastic option for vegetarians. It offers a hearty and satisfying meal without any meat. The chickpeas and feta add plenty of substance to keep you full and happy.

In a little over 30 minutes, you’ll have soft, tender pasta shells and chickpeas covered in a lightly sweet lemon tahini dressing, with cucumbers, grated carrots, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, ready to enjoy!

HOW TO MAKE LEMON TAHINI PASTA SALAD

Pasta shells are cooked and cooled, then tossed in a delicious lemon honey tahini dressing with fresh vegetables, chickpeas, and crumbled feta cheese.

This is a side dish the whole family will enjoy! Are you ready to get started?

KITCHEN TOOLS YOU MAY NEED

We only recommend items we use and love.

• Medium-sized pot
• Strainer
• Can Opener
• Measuring Spoons – I LOVE my set of these!
• Knife
• Cutting Board
• Vegetable Grater
• Mixing Spoon
• Whisk
• Large Bowl
• Small Bowl

LEMON TAHINI PASTA SALAD INGREDIENTS

This quick and easy creamy chickpea pasta salad recipe uses everyday kitchen staples to create a delicious side dish your family will love.

All you need is:

• pasta shells
• chickpeas
• carrots
• red onion
• cherry tomatoes 
• cucumber
• green bell pepper
• feta cheese
• fresh parsley
• tahini
• lemon juice
• honey
• sea salt 
• freshly ground black pepper 

LEMON TAHINI PASTA SALAD RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS

First, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse the pasta, then allow it to cool.

Open the can of chickpeas, drain, and set aside. Chop the vegetables and grate the carrots.

In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta to the vegetables.  Mix in the drained chickpeas.

In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients. Drizzle over the pasta and vegetables and mix well again.

Garnish with delicious feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley. In a little over 30 minutes, you’ll have a side dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Recipe Tips and Tricks:

Cook the Pasta Al Dente: To keep your salad from getting mushy, cook it until it’s al dente. This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and provides a nice texture when mixed with the veggies and dressing.

Chill the Pasta Before Mixing: Allow the pasta to cool completely before tossing it with the vegetables and dressing. This helps the salad stay fresh and prevents the veggies from wilting.

Adjust the Dressing Consistency: If the dressing seems too thick, add more water or lemon juice to thin it out to your desired consistency. You want it to coat the pasta and veggies evenly without being too heavy.

Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. Extra salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice can make a big difference.

Add a Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds, like sunflower seeds or sliced almonds. They add a nice crunch that complements the creamy dressing and soft pasta.

Recipe Variations, Additions, and Substitutions:

• Tahini Alternatives: If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute almond butter, peanut butter, or even Greek yogurt for the dressing. Each will give the salad a slightly different flavor but still be delicious.
• Feta Cheese Swap: Try crumbled goat or blue cheese for a different type of cheese. You can use a vegan feta alternative or leave it out entirely if it is dairy-free.
• Honey Substitute: To make the salad vegan, swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. Both work well to add a touch of sweetness to the dressing.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or a grain like rice or buckwheat. Just be sure to check the cooking time for the pasta or grain to keep it al dente.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I make this lemon tahini pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors have more time to meld. You can make it up to a day in advance. Just stir it well before serving, and add a splash of water or lemon juice if the dressing has thickened.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

The salad will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you notice the pasta absorbing too much of the dressing, freshen it up with more lemon juice or water before serving.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While shell pasta works great for catching all the dressing and small veggies, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like rotini, penne, or bow ties. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.

What if I don’t have tahini?

No tahini? No problem! You can substitute it with almond butter, peanut butter, or Greek yogurt. Each option will slightly change the flavor, resulting in a creamy, delicious dressing.

Is this salad vegan?

As written, the salad contains feta cheese and honey, which are not vegan. To make it vegan, omit the feta or use a vegan cheese alternative and replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even canned tuna are great additions to filling this salad. Just mix in your preferred protein to turn it into a complete meal.

What can I serve with this pasta salad?

This salad is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as part of a larger spread with other salads and sides. It’s also perfect on its own as a light lunch.

How can I add more flavor to the dressing?

If you want to jazz up the dressing, consider adding minced garlic, a dash of hot sauce, or some fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or basil. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar, like apple cider or white wine vinegar, for a tangier taste.

Can I freeze this pasta salad?

Freezing pasta salad isn’t recommended, as the texture of the pasta and fresh vegetables can change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

What are some excellent substitutes for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta or need a substitute, try using crumbled goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even mild blue cheese. You can use a vegan feta substitute or omit the cheese for a dairy-free option.

Let’s See What You’ve Made!

Did you make this Lemon Tahini Pasta Salad? I’d love to see how yours turned out! Seeing your take on my recipes always brings a smile to my face.

Tag me on Instagram @sweetandsavorymorsels or use #sweetandsavorymorsels to share a photo of your tasty creation!

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LEMON TAHINI PASTA SALAD RECIPE

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