Enjoy this simple Spring and Summer side dish.
Pasta Salad
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
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- Rinse or scrub fresh vegetables under running water before preparing.
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- 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.
You might also like...
Jollof Rice
Jollof Rice
This flavorful variation of a West African favorite includes brown rice, tomatoes, onions, peppers, broth and seasonings. Thanks to the OSU Extension African Heritage Work Group for this recipe.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
55 to 60 minutes
Makes:
8 to 9 cups
Pumpkin Breakfast Cookies
Pumpkin Breakfast Cookies
Soft pumpkin breakfast cookies made with canned pumpkin, whole-wheat flour and warm spices.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
48 Cookies
Popeye Power Smoothie
Popeye Power Smoothie
This tasty green smoothie is sweet, creamy and refreshing. Kids love it!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Kale and White Bean Soup
Kale and White Bean Soup
A warm and filling soup made with beans, greens and Italian flavors.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
5 Cups
Sweet Potato and Orange Muffins
Sweet Potato and Orange Muffins
A warm and comforting combination of whole-wheat flour, sweet potatoes, warm spices and tangy orange make these muffins perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
12 muffins
Butternut Apple Crisp
Butternut Apple Crisp
Butternut squash and apples are topped with a cinnamon-spiced oat crumble for a healthy fall dessert.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
4 Cups

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.