Light & Zesty Pasta Salad
Description
This vibrant pasta salad is the ultimate summer side dish or light lunch option. Combining tender corkscrew noodles with crisp broccoli florets, juicy tomatoes, and sweet green peppers, it offers a satisfying crunch in every bite. The fat-free zesty Italian dressing ties everything together with a bright, herbaceous flavor profile that is both refreshing and appetizing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish comes together in minutes and tastes even better after chilling. It is a healthy, vegan-friendly choice that delivers big flavor without the heavy calories, making it a crowd-pleaser for health-conscious eaters and families alike.Ingredients
Directions
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Cook the corkscrew noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
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Steam the broccoli florets until they are crisp-tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and let them cool completely.
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In a small bowl, whisk the fat-free zesty Italian dressing until smooth.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, steamed broccoli, chopped green pepper, chopped tomato, and sliced scallions.
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Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
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Serve cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 89.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 5.7g9%
- Saturated Fat 1.9g10%
- Cholesterol 14.1mg5%
- Sodium 210.3mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.9g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.2g
- Protein 7.5g15%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight.
Variations: Add sliced black olives, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flair. For added protein, consider mixing in chickpeas or white beans.
Tip: Ensure the broccoli and pasta are completely cooled before mixing with the dressing to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy too quickly.
Note on Ingredients: This recipe uses fat-free dressing to keep the calorie count low. If you prefer a richer taste, you can substitute with a regular Italian dressing, but note that the nutritional values will change significantly.
