Tzatziki Pasta Salad Recipe

This Vegan Tzatziki Pasta Salad is a refreshing and creamy dish, perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a light meal. The salad combines gluten-free rotini pasta with crisp cucumbers, carrots, red onions, and Kalamata olives, all tossed in a tangy tzatziki dressing made from dairy-free yogurt, fresh herbs, and lemon juice. It's a versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Whether you're vegan, gluten-free, or simply seeking a delicious side dish, this pasta salad is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Salad:

• 16 oz gluten-free rotini pasta

• 1 cucumber, diced

• 1 carrot, diced

• ½ sweet onion, diced

• 1 bell pepper, diced (or use fire-roasted jarred pepper)

• ½ cup Kalamata olives, chopped

• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Tzatziki Dressing:

• 1½ cups plain unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (such as coconut or soy yogurt)

• ½ cup red wine vinegar

• ½ lemon, juiced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 2 tbsp fresh chopped dill (or ½ tsp dried)
  
  

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the gluten-free rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, dice the cucumber, carrot, sweet onion, and bell pepper. Chop the Kalamata olives and fresh parsley.

3. Make the Tzatziki Dressing: In a mason jar or bowl, combine the dairy-free yogurt, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, and fresh dill. Shake or whisk well to combine. If the dressing is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of water to reach desired consistency.

4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the diced vegetables, olives, and parsley. Pour the tzatziki dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 250 kcal

• Protein: 6 g

• Fat: 12 g

• Carbohydrates: 30 g

  • Dietary Fiber: 4 g

  • Sugars: 5 g

• Sodium: 300 mg

• Potassium: 400 mg