Tikka Masala Pasta Salad is a bright, spiced pasta salad that mixes tikka masala sauce with fresh vegetables and chickpeas.
- Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — Introduction
- Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — Why make this recipe
- Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — How to make Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
- Tikka Masala Pasta Salad Ingredients
- Tikka Masala Pasta Salad Directions
- Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — How to serve Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
- Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — How to store Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
- Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — Tips to make Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
- Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — Variations for Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
- Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — FAQs for Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — Introduction
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad brings Indian flavors into a simple, cold pasta dish.
It is quick to make and good for lunches, picnics, or potlucks.
If you like quick pasta salads, try a different twist like the BLT pasta salad for more ideas.
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — Why make this recipe
Make Tikka Masala Pasta Salad when you want a filling salad with bold flavor.
It uses pantry items and fresh veg, so it is easy and affordable.
This salad also works well as a meal on its own or as a side.
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — How to make Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
To make this salad, cook pasta, mix veggies and chickpeas, then toss with the sauce.
The sauce is simple: whisk tikka masala sauce with olive oil and pour over the salad.
For other easy pasta salad ideas, see an easy pasta salad with pickles recipe.
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup vegan tikka masala sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, garbanzo beans, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tikka masala sauce and olive oil.
- Pour the sauce over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your salad cold or at room temperature!
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — How to serve Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
Top with extra cilantro or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Pair it with a simple green salad or a recipe like the Greek broccoli pasta salad for a fuller meal.
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — How to store Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Keep dressing separate if you plan to store longer to avoid soggy vegetables.
Stir well before serving if it sits for a while.
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — Tips to make Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
- Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool fast.
- Use firm cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumber for texture.
- Taste the sauce before tossing; add salt or a little lemon if needed.
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — Variations for Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
- Add cooked tofu or roasted cauliflower for more protein.
- Swap garbanzo beans for edamame or black beans.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a heartier version.
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad — FAQs for Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes. Use a gluten-free pasta and check that the tikka masala sauce is gluten-free.
Q: Can I use dairy tikka masala sauce instead of vegan?
A: Yes. Any tikka masala sauce works, though flavors may vary slightly.
Q: Where can I buy good tikka masala sauce?
A: Many stores sell jars or pouches of tikka masala sauce, or you can buy it online. Buy it here.
Q: How long will the salad stay fresh?
A: It stays best for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Q: Can I serve this warm?
A: Yes, serve warm right after mixing, but it is most popular chilled.
Tikka Masala Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta and Veggies
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Use firm cherry tomatoes for texture.
- 1 cup cucumber, diced Use crisp cucumber for texture.
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed Can substitute with edamame or black beans.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish Use extra for brightness.
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup vegan tikka masala sauce Regular tikka masala sauce can also be used.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, garbanzo beans, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tikka masala sauce and olive oil.
- Pour the sauce over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your salad cold or at room temperature!
