Vegan Pesto Pasta with Roasted Veggies (Oil-Free!)
Fun fusilli pasta, creamy vegan pesto, earthy chickpeas, and bright roasted vegetables, combine for a quick, easy, and colorful vegan pesto pasta salad. This recipe is oil-free but full of flavor. Serve cold as a perfect side dish for a summer cookout or warm as your main course.
Open the can of chickpeas part way and pour the aquafaba (liquid) into a separate bowl. Save this for making the pesto.
Wash and prep the vegetables: Chop the zucchini and squash into half moons or quarters. Slice the red onion and garlic into slivers.
Place the vegetables on a lined sheet tray, season with garlic powder, pepper, and salt (optional) and place in the oven. Roast on high heat for 25 minutes or until nicely browned. (You can turn on the broiler for the last 5 to 10 minutes for even better roasting).
While the vegetables are roasting, fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil over high heat.
While the water is starting to boil, make the pesto following the instructions linked below.
After the water begins to boil, add your pasta and cook for about 9 minutes (follow the package instructions for best results).
When the pasta is cooked, drain and rinse under cool water. Set aside to cool.
After the vegetables are done roasting, remove from the oven, and set aside to cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
When the pasta and vegetables are cooled, toss the pasta, veggies, and chickpeas together in a big bowl. Add the pesto and mix until combined. Serve immediately or store covered in the refrigerator for later.
Store up to 4 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Feel free to use your favorite pasta or whatever you have in the pantry. Varieties like fusilli, penne, and bow tie are ideal for this recipe.
You can also mix up the roasted veggies, but be aware that cooking times may vary. Denser veggies like cauliflower, carrots, and potatoes will take longer and should be placed on a separate tray to account for this.
Optional: Sprinkle with vegan parmesan before serving.
Keyword oil-free pasta salad, vegan pasta salad, vegan pesto pasta salad