Description
Healthy Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together the best of summer flavors. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or meal prep, this salad features colorful vegetables and savory ingredients that create a delightful balance of taste and texture. With its quick preparation time and ability to be made ahead, you can enjoy this refreshing dish as a satisfying main course or a tasty side. Customize it to your liking by swapping out ingredients to cater to different dietary preferences, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 ounces uncooked short pasta (like rotini)
- 10 ounces cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 2/3 cup jarred roasted red pepper (diced)
- 1 large green bell pepper (chopped)
- 1/2 cup sliced olives
- 4 ounces turkey pepperoni (or chickpeas for vegetarian option)
- 4 ounces mini mozzarella cheese balls
- 3 tbsp reserved pasta water
- 1 2/3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2–1 tsp kosher salt
- black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions; reserve 3 tablespoons of pasta water before draining.
- In a small bowl, mix together the dressing ingredients until combined.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, bell peppers, olives, turkey pepperoni (or chickpeas), and mozzarella balls. Pour in the dressing and toss well.
- Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving for optimal flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg