Crisp vegetables, hearty whole-wheat pasta and Italian dressing make the perfect summer pasta salad.
Summer Vegetable and Pasta Salad

Ingredients
3 cups uncooked whole-wheat pasta
1 cup chopped broccoli
1 cup diced cucumber
1 cup sliced summer squash
¾ cup Italian salad dressing
Directions
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- Rinse fresh vegetables under running water before preparing.
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Rinse with cold water. Place in large bowl.
- Add remaining ingredients and mix well.
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
Notes
- Use any colorful vegetables you have on hand. Try carrots, cherry tomatoes or green onions.
- Flavor boosters: 1 cup diced cooked chicken or ham, or 1 cup garbanzo beans.
- Try Food Hero Red Wine Vinaigrette for the dressing.
You might also like...
Blueberry Crisp

Blueberry Crisp
This low-sugar dessert is made with whole-grain oats, warm cinnamon spice and sweet berries. More berries than topping lets the fruit shine!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Watermelon with Lime and Chili Powder

Watermelon with Lime and Chili Powder
A simple and healthy snack that is sweet, spicy and citrusy.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
2 Cups
Black-Eyed Peas and Greens

Black-Eyed Peas and Greens
Comforting and filling, this recipe is easy to make for New Year’s luck any time of the year.
Prepare:
15 minutes + 6 hours to soak
Cook:
1 hour 10 minutes
Makes:
5 cups
Tabouli Bulgur Wheat Salad

Tabouli Bulgur Wheat Salad
Tasty make-ahead salad with hearty whole grains, fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing.
Prepare:
45 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Banana Berry Smoothie

Banana Berry Smoothie
An on-the-go breakfast or snack recipe made with creamy banana, sweet berries and refreshing orange juice!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Microwave Fresh Vegetables

Microwave Fresh Vegetables
Steam-cooking fresh vegetables in the microwave is an easy way to make a healthy side dish for lunch or dinner in just minutes. The short cooking time preserves nutrients, color and flavor.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
5 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Comments
I love this recipe. The summer squash is the key in making this dish refreshing while still remaining filling. Instead of a vinaigrette, I used some pesto I had on hand, and I really liked it. if I was going to make this again with pesto, though, I would add a bit of lemon as I was missing that kick the vinaigrette was meant to give.
This is great! Try it with low-fat salad dressing!