Sure! Here’s a delightful recipe for a vibrant and healthy Italian Pasta Salad that bursts with flavors and textures, perfect for a quick meal or a side dish at any gathering! This recipe is not only delicious but also low in cholesterol, making it a guilt-free indulgence. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and no cooking required, it’s an easy and convenient option for busy days or last-minute get-togethers. Let’s dive into the details:
Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups tri-color spiral pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 10 radishes
- 1 cup ripe olives
- 1/3 cup green pepper
- 1/3 cup wheat germ (plus extra for topping)
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients required for the Italian Pasta Salad. Ensure that the vegetables are washed and dried thoroughly.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the tri-color spiral pasta, cherry tomatoes (you can halve them if preferred), thinly sliced radishes, ripe olives (you can use pitted olives), diced green pepper, and wheat germ.
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Toss Gently: Using a wooden spoon or salad tongs, gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to break the pasta or crush the vegetables while tossing.
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Chill: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste of the salad.
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Serve: Once chilled, remove the Italian Pasta Salad from the refrigerator. Give it a final toss to redistribute any dressing that may have settled at the bottom of the bowl.
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Garnish (Optional): If desired, sprinkle some additional wheat germ on top of the salad just before serving. This adds a nutty flavor and extra crunch to the dish.
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Enjoy: Serve the Italian Pasta Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside your favorite main course or enjoy it on its own as a light and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, or any occasion!
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 1383.8
- Fat Content: 36.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 5.7g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 1916mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 224.3g
- Fiber Content: 17g
- Sugar Content: 16.5g
- Protein Content: 42.3g
Recipe Notes:
- Feel free to customize the Italian Pasta Salad according to your taste preferences. You can add other vegetables such as cucumber, bell peppers, or red onion for extra color and flavor.
- For a protein boost, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the salad.
- Make sure to use a good-quality wheat germ for maximum flavor and nutritional benefits.
- This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick toss before serving to freshen it up.
- Experiment with different dressings such as Italian vinaigrette, balsamic glaze, or lemon herb dressing to change up the flavor profile of the salad.
Cooking Time Table:
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prepare Ingredients | 5 minutes |
| Combine Ingredients | 2 minutes |
| Toss Gently | 2 minutes |
| Chill | 1 hour |
| Serve | 5 minutes |
This Italian Pasta Salad recipe is not only quick and easy to make but also packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch option, a side dish for dinner, or a colorful addition to your next gathering, this salad is sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in every bite! 🥗🍅🫑
