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)

Spinach with Garbanzo Beans
Bowl of bright green salad with beans.

Spinach with Garbanzo Beans

Garlicky, tender garbanzo beans sauteed with spinach for a warm and delicious meal.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
White Chicken Chili
Small bowl of creamy chicken and bean soup served with crackers.

White Chicken Chili

Kid-approved dinner idea that is creamy, comforting and ready in 1 hour.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
8 cups
Banana Ginger Sauce
A bowl of banana ginger sauce is shown with raw veggie strips and grilled tofu kebabs for dipping.

Banana Ginger Sauce

Inspired by banana ketchup, a condiment from the Philippines, this sweet and tangy sauce is the perfect addition to many dishes!
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
1 cup
Baked Meatballs
A bowl of baked meatballs made with oatmeal and grated carrot is shown on a placemat.

Baked Meatballs

Easy homemade meatballs with vegetables and oats for added moisture, flavor and nutrients!
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
21 meatballs
Magical Fruit Salad
Footed glass dish with a creamy fruit salad. 

Magical Fruit Salad

This 3-ingredient fruit salad is a fun and delicious way to add more fruit to your day!
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Tofu "Egg" Salad
Creamy tofu mix served on bread with lettuce.

Tofu "Egg" Salad

A great make-ahead tofu lunch recipe with crunchy celery and a creamy dressing.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Makes:
1 Cup
Was this page helpful to you?
CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.