Acini Pasta Salad With Veggies Recipe for Fresh Flavor

Looking for a vibrant, fresh, and super tasty pasta salad that’s perfect for any occasion? Acini pasta salad with veggies is a delightful dish that combines tiny, bead-like pasta with an array of colorful vegetables, tossed in a zesty dressing.

This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for lunchboxes, picnics, or as a side dish at family gatherings. Acini pasta’s small size allows every bite to be bursting with flavors and textures, making each forkful a little celebration of freshness and crunch.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is simple, quick, and customizable to your taste preferences. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while enjoying the comfort of pasta.

Plus, it stores well, so you can make it ahead for busy days. Ready to dive into this delicious, wholesome salad?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Acini pasta salad with veggies recipe is a perfect balance of healthy ingredients and delicious flavors. The small-size acini pasta captures the dressing beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

It’s incredibly versatile—you can use whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand, making it a great recipe for using seasonal produce or leftovers. Plus, it’s vegetarian, naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free acini pasta, and can easily be made vegan by choosing the right dressing.

This salad is also a great make-ahead dish, perfect for meal prep or entertaining. The vibrant colors and fresh textures will brighten up your table and your palate!

Ingredients

• 1 cup acini pasta (or any small pasta like orzo or couscous)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chilli powder for a bit of heat (see Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander or sieve
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork for making dressing
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the acini pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the acini pasta and cook according to package instructions—usually about 6-8 minutes—until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Drain and rinse: Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Set aside to drain thoroughly.
3. Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop all your vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and shred the carrots. Slice the olives if using.
4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If you’d like a little kick, add a pinch of chilli powder for extra flavor.
5. Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta, chopped vegetables, and fresh herbs (parsley and basil). Pour the dressing over the salad.
6. Toss everything together: Gently toss the salad to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Chill and serve: For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips & Variations

“Make this salad your own by swapping in your favorite seasonal veggies or adding protein like chickpeas or grilled tofu for a heartier meal!”

• Protein boost: Add cooked chickpeas, black beans, or cubed tofu to make this salad more filling and protein-rich.
• Cheese lovers: Sprinkle some crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella for a creamy contrast.
• Herb swap: Try fresh cilantro or mint instead of basil for a different flavor profile.
• Make it vegan: Use a vegan mustard and skip the cheese to keep it 100% plant-based.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free acini pasta or substitute with quinoa for a grain-free salad.
• Extra zest: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of balsamic glaze before serving for brightness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This acini pasta salad is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Serve it as a refreshing side to grilled vegetables or barbecue favorites for a light summer meal.

It also makes a perfect lunchbox addition with a side of fresh fruit or a handful of nuts. For a picnic or potluck, pair it with crusty bread or stuffed pita pockets.

Want to keep it light and healthy? Serve it atop a bed of leafy greens for a satisfying salad bowl.

If you are interested in exploring more wholesome vegetarian recipes, check out A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Conclusion

Acini pasta salad with veggies is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and easy preparation. Whether you’re making it for a family meal, a casual get-together, or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Its versatility allows you to experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and dressings, keeping the salad exciting every time you make it. Plus, its nutritional benefits make it a smart choice for anyone looking to eat more plant-based meals without sacrificing taste.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious and nutritious vegetarian recipes like the Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals or the Vegan Chipotle Bowl Recipe for a Flavorful Healthy Meal to keep your menu varied and exciting.

Happy cooking and enjoy your fresh, vibrant acini pasta salad!

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