If your lunch doesn’t scream “Mediterranean goddess with a caffeine addiction,” are you even living? Greek Pasta Salad is here—fresh, herby, and full of things that feel healthy enough to cancel out your iced latte regrets. And just when you think you’re done, in struts Espresso Brownies like your favorite ex—dark, intense, and better with age. This vegan duo doesn’t just nourish; it emotionally supports you. One bite of crisp cucumber, then bam—a chocolatey coffee square to bring back your will to function. It’s lunch, it’s dessert, it’s therapy without the co-pay. You’re welcome.
Greek Pasta Salad with Espresso Brownies
A bold, flavorful Greek pasta salad served alongside rich, espresso-infused vegan brownies. Mediterranean fresh meets mocha-fueled indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Greek Pasta Salad:
- 2 cups cooked fusilli or bowtie pasta
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cucumber chopped
- 1/4 red onion sliced
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives pitted
- 1/4 cup vegan feta optional but fabulous
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Espresso Brownies:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup coconut oil melted
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1/3 cup chopped dark chocolate vegan
Instructions
Greek Pasta Salad:
- Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and let cool.
- Toss tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and vegan feta in a bowl.
- Whisk olive oil, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper to make dressing.
- Combine pasta and veggies. Pour dressing over. Toss like you mean it.
- Chill or serve immediately—your call, queen.
Espresso Brownies:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, espresso, salt, and baking soda.
- In another bowl, mix maple syrup, coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients. Stir in chocolate chunks.
- Pour batter into greased 8×8-inch pan.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until center is set.
- Let cool (if you have the patience). Slice and serve.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
Calories: 410Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 7g
Vitamins and Minerals (Per Serving)
- Iron: 12%
- Calcium: 9%
- Vitamin K: 14%
- Magnesium: 11%
- Folate: 10%
Additional Notes / Tips to Enhance Flavor
- Add fresh mint or parsley to the salad for extra flair.
- Swap in sun-dried tomatoes if you want drama.
- Use strong brewed coffee in place of espresso powder for a deeper brownie hit.
- Dust brownies with cacao powder for the “Instagram baker” effect.
- Store extras—if they exist—in an airtight container (or just eat them now).
