Ready to break all the rules of pasta and dessert? Let’s talk about a Bacon Pasta Salad with Mocha Mousse—yes, vegan style. You get a creamy, smoky pasta salad that’s totally plant-based, yet still gives off all the rich, indulgent vibes. Then, for dessert, we’re diving into a mocha mousse that’s both decadent and deceptively healthy (if you don’t count your second helping). It’s the kind of dish that makes you look effortlessly chic in the kitchen while indulging your deepest, darkest cravings. Trust me, no one will guess it’s all vegan until you tell them. And honestly? You probably shouldn’t.
Bacon Pasta Salad with Mocha Mousse
This vegan bacon pasta salad is combined with a creamy mocha mousse, perfect for indulging without the guilt.
Ingredients
Vegan Bacon Pasta Salad:
- 2 cups cooked pasta fusilli works great
- 1/2 cup tempeh bacon diced
- 1/4 cup vegan mayo
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 tsp black salt for that “egg” flavor
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
Mocha Mousse:
- 1 cup silken tofu
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp instant espresso
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Vegan whipped cream optional, but totally necessary.
Instructions
- For Bacon Pasta Salad:
- Cook pasta until al dente, then rinse under cold water.
- Sauté tempeh bacon until crispy and golden.
- In a large bowl, whisk mayo, mustard, vinegar, black salt, and garlic powder.
- Toss pasta, bacon, onions, and tomatoes together.
- Chill or serve right away. (Your choice, queen.)
- For Mocha Mousse:
- Add tofu, cocoa powder, espresso, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt to a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.
- Top with vegan whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
Calories: 450Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 12g
Vitamins and Minerals (Per Serving)
- Iron: 14%
- Calcium: 12%
- Magnesium: 10%
- Folate: 18%
- Vitamin C: 8%
Additional Notes / Tips to Enhance Flavor
- Add smoked paprika to the dressing for extra smokiness.
- A splash of lemon juice will brighten everything up.
- Chill the mousse overnight for a firmer texture.
- Toss in some sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Serve with a glass of chilled rosé because you deserve it.
