Friday, August 5, 2011

Creamy Vegan Summer Salad


One of the textures we tend to miss as vegans is CREAM. Well, at least I do! Creamy vegan foods are readily available and simple to make with a little creativity. This recipe uses my Vegan Ranch Dip recipe to recreate the typical store-bought or homemade deli salads we find at Summer picnics. You can substitute/add any veggies you like to create your own unique version of this Summertime favorite.

4 cups cooked organic pasta of choice, cooled (organic vegetable Radiatore from Trader Joe's pictured)
1 pint organic cherry tomatoes (heirloom if available), whole
1/2 cup organic onion, diced small
1 medium organic cucumber, diced small
1 can small whole black olives, choose organic or check label for additives
1/2-3/4 cup prepared Vegan Ranch Dip (see recipe)

Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and gently combine with a large wooden spoon. Chill for at least two hours or overnight. Gently stir before serving.

Remember, use local and organic foods as much as possible. This is just as important as our choice to remove/reduce animal products from our diet!

*can be made gluten-free by using gluten free pasta, can be soy-free

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