Skip to main content

Pasta Salad

Enjoy this simple Spring and Summer side dish.
Macaroni noodles with ham, vegetables and dressing.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Makes: 6 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

3 cups cooked pasta
2 Tablespoons chopped sweet onion
¼ cup chopped celery
¼ cup chopped carrot
¼ cup peas (cooked from fresh or frozen, or canned, drained and rinsed) (see Notes)
2 Tablespoons chopped red or green bell pepper
1 ½ cups chopped ham
½ cup cubed cheddar cheese (optional)
¼ cup low-fat Italian dressing (try Food Hero Red Wine Vinaigrette)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. Rinse or scrub fresh vegetables under running water before preparing.
  3. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  4. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Cook frozen peas according to package directions or to 165 degrees F.
  • Try substituting different vegetables. Always cook frozen vegetables according to package directions."
  • Ham can be substituted with any meat of choice.
  • Try whole-grain pasta for more whole grains.

Comments

Kids love the color and the added protein of this salad.  Great well rounded snack or meal!

Such an easy and yummy dish!!

Such and easy but tasty recipe!

Very simple and colorful dish! Makes a quick healthy meal for young children.

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Baked Apple and Cranberries
Four cored apples filled with cranberries, butter and brown sugar are baked, broiled and displayed on a serving plate.

Baked Apple and Cranberries

Warm apples and cinnamon combined with sweet-tart cranberries make this flavorful low-sugar dessert!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
5 minutes
Makes:
1 Apple
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Bowl of warming soup made with cheddar cheese, carrots and broccoli.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This cheesy and veggie-filled soup is perfect for lunch or dinner any time of year.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 Cups
Pumpkin Smoothie in a Cup
Glass of thick smoothie served with cinnamon sticks.

Pumpkin Smoothie in a Cup

The perfect smoothie recipe for those who enjoy the flavors of fall. Ready in 5 minutes!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
1 cup
Carrot Raisin Salad
Photo of Carrot Raisin Salad

Carrot Raisin Salad

Quick and easy side dish with a creamy and flavorful dressing. Only 4 ingredients and ready in 15 minutes!
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
2 ½ Cups
Eggplant Pizza Slices
Plate of eggplant rounds with red sauce and mozzarella topped with breadcrumbs.

Eggplant Pizza Slices

Cheesy, melty and topped with a dash of crunchy breadcrumbs.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
8 Slices
Roasted Green Beans
Plater of tender green beans.

Roasted Green Beans

A simple and easy recipe for making summer fresh green beans. The perfect side for any meal.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
3 cups