CREAMY LOW-POINT PASTA VEGGIE SALAD

CREAMY LOW-POINT PASTA VEGGIE SALAD

INGREDIENTS (SERVES 3–4)

PASTA BASE

• 2 cups cooked pasta (whole wheat, chickpea, or regular—small shapes like fusilli or penne work best)

• Salt for boiling water

VEGETABLES

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup bell peppers, diced

• ½ cup carrots, shredded

• ¼ cup red onion, finely sliced

• ½ cup sweet corn (optional)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped

CREAMY LOW-POINT DRESSING

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (low-fat)

• 1 tbsp light mayo (optional, for extra creaminess)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp mustard

• 1 small garlic clove, grated (or ½ tsp garlic powder)

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp dried oregano or mixed herbs

• 1–2 tbsp water (to loosen consistency)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. COOK THE PASTA

• Boil pasta in salted water until al dente.

• Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.

• Set aside.

2. PREP THE VEGETABLES

• Wash and chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces.

• Keep them fresh and crunchy for best texture.

3. MAKE THE CREAMY DRESSING

• In a bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, light mayo (if using), lemon juice, mustard, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs.

• Add a little water to make it smooth and pourable.

4. COMBINE EVERYTHING

• In a large bowl, add pasta and vegetables.

• Pour dressing over and mix well until everything is evenly coated.

5. CHILL (RECOMMENDED)

• Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

TEXTURE & FLAVOR

• Creamy but light dressing

• Crunchy fresh vegetables

• Soft, satisfying pasta

• Tangy, herby finish

SERVING IDEAS

• Serve as a light lunch or dinner

• Pair with grilled chicken or boiled eggs for extra protein

• Great for meal prep (stays fresh 2–3 days)

• Works as a side dish for BBQ or roasted meals

VARIATIONS

• Higher protein: Add chicken, tuna, or chickpeas

• Dairy-free: Use vegan yogurt

• Extra fresh: Add cucumber, celery, or spinach

• Spicy twist: Add chili flakes or hot sauce

• Lower carb: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles