Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Healthy Creamy Pasta Salad, a perfect dish for summer gatherings, picnics, or a quick meal option. Combining fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a rich, creamy dressing made without any pork or alcohol, this pasta salad is both nutritious and delicious. Ready in just 30 minutes, it boasts a colorful array of cherry tomatoes, green peas, and olives, all coated in a zesty lemon-infused dressing. This versatile dish can be served as a light lunch or as a side at barbecues, making it an ideal choice for various occasions. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste!
Ingredients
- 1 lb curly-shaped pasta (like fusilli)
- 1 lb cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen/thawed green peas
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1 can sliced black olives
- 3 Tbsp finely chopped fresh chives
- 3 Tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise or full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp lemon zest
- 3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or yogurt), olive oil, lemon zest and juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with tomatoes, peas, onion, celery, olives, chives, and dill.
- Pour dressing over the mixture and toss gently until fully coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Opt for curly pasta shapes to hold the dressing better. Feel free to add diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch. Make ahead for the best flavor development.