Description
Healthy Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Bursting with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and a zesty dressing, this pasta salad is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a flavorful option for picnics, this recipe fits the bill. The combination of colorful ingredients creates an appetizing presentation, while the flavors meld beautifully when chilled. With its refreshing taste and satisfying components, this Healthy Italian Pasta Salad will delight your palate and leave you feeling great.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 oz uncooked short pasta (like rotini)
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2/3 cup jarred roasted red pepper, diced
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced olives
- 4 oz turkey pepperoni or chickpeas (for vegetarian option)
- 4 oz mini mozzarella cheese balls
- Dressing: olive oil, red wine vinegar, dijon mustard, Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Boil pasta according to package directions; reserve 3 tbsp pasta water before draining.
- In a small bowl or mason jar, mix dressing ingredients including reserved water until combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, roasted red pepper, green bell pepper, olives, turkey pepperoni (or chickpeas), and mozzarella.
- Pour dressing over the salad and mix well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour for best flavor before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 20mg