Pasta is great for making salads but if you’re looking for something a little more exciting, you’ve come to the right place. In this article we’ll be sharing with you some great ideas for making your pasta salads a little more interesting and a little more filling too. So whether you’re looking for something a little bit different or you’re looking to cut down on carbs, here’s our list of substitutes for pasta in pasta salad.
Tofu
Tofu is a great vegan substitute for hard-boiled eggs as it has a similar taste and texture. It can be found in supermarkets in blocks, vacuum-packed, or in aseptic boxes, and is usually found with the non-dairy foods. It can be added to pasta salads with similar flavor profiles or used as a base to build a salad around.
Beans
Beans are a great source of protein and fiber, and can be eaten on their own or added to salads as a substitute for meat. They can be eaten boiled, baked or smoked, or added to soups and stews.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas are the same as beans but with a smoother texture. They are often used in Middle Eastern and African cuisine, and make for a great substitute for meat in pasta salads.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a great meat substitute as they have a meaty taste with a great texture. They are high in nutrients and can be eaten raw or cooked, and can be added to salads as a substitute for meat.
Nuts
Nuts can be added to salads as a great source of protein, healthy fats and minerals. They are also often served with salads as an alternative to cheese.
Meatballs
If you’re looking for a substitute for hard-boiled eggs, then meatballs are perfect. They are made from ground meat, often beef or pork, and can be added to salads as a substitute for eggs.
Eggs
Eggs can be added to salads as a great protein source. They can be cooked and hard-boiled or raw and boiled, and can be cut into quarters or halves depending on your preference.
Pickles
If you’re not a huge fan of vegetables in your salads, try adding some pickles. They have a tangy and sour flavor which helps balance out the sweetness of the vegetables.
Cucumber
Cucumbers have a great crunch and help to balance out the flavor of the other ingredients in the salad. They are also a good source of water and vitamins.
Conclusion
Pasta salads are a quick and easy meal that can be made with whatever you have in the kitchen. The only challenging part is trying to think of ways to make your salads more interesting and filling. Luckily, we’ve got a list of substitutes for pasta in pasta salad that will allow you to sub in something new and exciting every time you make a salad.