About the Recipe
Looking for an incredibly delicious, budget-friendly dish to bring to a potluck, picnic, or summer gathering? Or maybe you need an easy lunch that’s perfect for meal prep? This colorful pasta salad checks all the boxes. It’s filling, made with just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. I especially love making it during the hot summer months because anything chilled is welcome. If you give it a try, I’d love to hear what you think!
Ingredients
Salad
1 (16-ounce) package whole-grain pasta (rotini, elbow macaroni, or other favorite shape)
1 (16-ounce) bag frozen mixed vegetables (corn, carrots, peas, green beans, etc.), let thaw for a few minutes or rinse quickly with cold water
1 (15-ounce) can dark kidney beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, great northern beans, or your favorite white beans, drained and rinsed
Dressing
½ cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons maple syrup, plus more to taste
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or your favorite vinegar)
3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (use gluten-free if needed)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Preparation
Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled.
While the pasta is cooling, whisk together all of the dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, vegetables, and both kinds of beans.
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. I usually mix it with my hands because it’s the easiest way to coat everything without breaking the pasta. Yes, it’s a hands-on project!
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. I personally enjoy tangy flavors, so you may want to add a little more maple syrup to balance the acidity.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. The flavors become even better after a few hours—or overnight—but it’s delicious right away, too.
No animals were harmed during the creation of this recipe!
