Bright, refreshing, and packed with protein, this Pasta and Bean Salad with Cumin and Coriander Dressing is your go-to recipe for an easy lunch or potluck side dish. Featuring tender pasta tossed with hearty kidney beans, chickpeas, crunchy cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant fresh coriander, this dish is elevated by a zesty, aromatic dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, and coriander. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness from honeyβor maple syrup for a vegan-friendly optionβthis salad comes together in just 25 minutes and can be served chilled or at room temperature. Its vibrant flavors, nutrient-rich ingredients, and versatile preparation make it ideal for summer picnics or a quick, satisfying meal any time of the year.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set it aside to cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the kidney beans, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh coriander leaves.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and black pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
Add the cooled pasta to the large bowl with the vegetables and beans. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to taste.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Calories |
1400 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 52.4 g | 67% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.9 g | 40% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1917 mg | 83% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 193.2 g | 70% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 36.0 g | 129% | |
| Total Sugars | 27.7 g | ||
| Protein | 47.8 g | 96% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 378 mg | 29% | |
| Iron | 15.2 mg | 84% | |
| Potassium | 2634 mg | 56% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.