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)

Master Mix
Glass jar labeled Master Mix with a flour-based baking mix.

Master Mix

Make your own baking mix to have on hand for quick biscuits, pancakes and other recipes.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
10 cups
Fruit Salad
Footed dessert glasses filled with a fruit mix coated in yogurt.

Fruit Salad

A favorite recipe by many of our educators, as it is so easily adaptable and tasty.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
5 cups
Lentil Soup
Bowl of green lentil soup.

Lentil Soup

A warm and savory lentil soup seasoned with garlic, chili powder, and cumin.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
6 cups
Barley Lentil Soup
Bowls of soup containing colorful vegetables, lentils and barley.

Barley Lentil Soup

One-pot hearty lentil soup that’s packed with veggies, herbs and grains!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
1 and ½ hours
Makes:
10 cups
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Plate of diced pineapple, vegetables and chicken served with rice.

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Sweet pineapple, chicken, vegetables and a savory sauce are combined to make a delicious meal for any night of the week.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
6 Cups
Corn Pancakes
Round, golden corn pancakes displayed on a skillet and plate.

Corn Pancakes

A delicious savory alternative to traditional pancakes.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
5 minutes
Makes:
6 6-inch pancakes