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...
Reduced-Fat Chorizo
Reduced-Fat Chorizo
Thanks to the OSU Extension Latin Heritage workgroup for this recipe. Using lower fat meats reduces saturated fat for heart health.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
12 servings
Sautéed Peppers
Sautéed Peppers
These sauteed sweet peppers and onions are delicious enjoyed on their own, added to sandwiches or pasta, or with fajitas.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Spicy Rice and Ground Beef Casserole
Spicy Rice and Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty and tasty dish that combines rice, lean ground beef, southwest-style veggies and creamy cheddar cheese.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
8 cups
Skillet Mac and Cheese
Skillet Mac and Cheese
A simple and quick recipe to make at home. Customize with the cheese and vegetables you have on hand.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Quick Chili
Quick Chili
With 5 ingredients and 30 minutes, you will have a hearty and satisfying chili. Add your favorite veggies and toppings.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
6 Cups
Herbed Yogurt Sauce
Herbed Yogurt Sauce
Homemade creamy yogurt sauce blended with parsley, mint and cilantro.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
2 ½ 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.